The GWS Giants are keen on hosting an Anzac Day game at Manuka Oval next year as part of the centenary anniversary of the first landing at Gallipoli.

McLachlan had an instrumental role in the Giants securing a 10-year agreement to play games in the ACT, dealing in negotiations with the ACT government in his previous role as the deputy chief executive of the AFL.

Sheedy praised the work McLachlan had done in helping the Giants become a regular fixture in Canberra and believed he was the right man to succeed Andrew Demetriou.

But Sheedy also wasted no time in putting the pressure on McLachlan to grant the Giants their wish in bringing an Anzac Day game to Canberra.

"His next step will be – will the Giants play a top-class team here in Canberra on Anzac Day?'' Sheedy said.

"We need to put it on the table straight away.

"I think if we do it correctly with a great deal of class and integrity, I have no doubt we can get it right.''

Sheedy was speaking at Manuka Oval on Wednesday as part of a partnership between the Giants and the Heart Foundation ACT to raise awareness of Heart Week.

The former champion player and coach was the impetus behind the Anzac Day game between Essendon and Collingwood at the MCG.

"The thing we did with this game is we connected with the soul and spirit with Australia about our defence forces,'' Sheedy said.

"Where does it start? It's in Canberra, in Duntroon.

"The one thing about building this new club is exploring opportunities to build the game throughout Australia.

"I think Gillon will do that and it's great to have an experienced operator who has been in the system.''

Giants chief executive David Matthews was on the shortlist as a replacement for Demetriou, but was never interviewed for the position.

Matthews said his focus was solely on helping the Giants to establish themselves and to guide the club through its infancy.

"I'm really enjoying what's happening at the Giants and I'm happy doing what I'm doing,'' Matthews said.

"We've got some unfinished business at the Giants and [McLachlan] thoroughly deserves the opportunity.

"I've worked with him on the AFL executive for 11 years and I know the quality of the person.

"[McLachlan] really drove those discussions with [ACT Sport Minister] Andrew Barr and made a lot of headway.

"He's certainly had a big influence on expansion generally and particularly on the Giants' involvement in Canberra.

"He is well aware of how important the national capital is in the overall picture of things.''