HAWTHORN'S Alastair Clarkson faces former right-hand man and Carlton mentor Brendon Bolton in an coaching battle of wits on Saturday.

But even before the Hawks landed in Launceston, Clarkson was already sick of the 'master and apprentice' subplot.

"We're not really interested in all the excitement and romance ... he's got a job to do at Carlton. I've got a job to do at Hawthorn," Clarkson said in Melbourne on Friday.

Clarkson cares more about banking four premiership points and staying two games clear in top spot on the ladder.

But the four-time premiership coach must also have grown tiresome of the subplot given so many proteges have become rivals.

Bolton, Leon Cameron, Adam Simpson, Luke Beveridge and Damien Hardwick all honed their trade as Clarkson's assistants.

"It's par for the course, whether it's players or coaches (they switch clubs)," Clarkson said.

"As good a mates as you might be, you don't usually converse too much in the week before the game or the week after. 

"I haven't spoken to 'Dimma' (Hardwick) since we played (last weekend).

"We'll probably renew our friendship again next week. That'll probably be the same with 'Bolts' the week after next."

Blues captain Marc Murphy, currently sidelined with an ankle injury, suggested on Thursday that Bolton had some inside information about the Hawks.

Clarkson believes there are no secrets about Hawthorn's approach. 

"There's 10 coaches at every team in the competition. They all do a very, very good job and they know what you're doing," Clarkson said.

"We don't expect 'Bolts' would know too much more than what Collingwood, West Coast or any other side would know about us.

"It's one thing to know what you're doing, it's another thing to try and break it down."

The Hawks, who have been hosting games at Aurora Stadium for 15 years, are shooting for a 19th straight win at their adopted home.

"It's been a win-win ... we play really well at that ground," Clarkson said. 

"It was really important for our club, the financial stability of our club ... it has been really good for Tassie and really good for us."

Clarkson, whose side is sitting pretty in their search for a fourth straight flag, highlighted Bryce Gibbs, Patrick Cripps and Matthew Kreuzer as Carlton's danger men. 

"Their midfield is as challenging as any midfield in the competition," he said.