CLUB chairman Adrian Benson was taken aback by the response after Eccleshill United advertised the position of manager.

The Eagles and former Bantams player Mark Ellis' Richmond International Academic & Soccer Academy (RIASA) have parted ways and that led to the departure of Gerard Jones.

RIASA and Rochdale Academy coach Jones was head coach under director of football Ellis but there will be a new broom for next season.

"The response we've had says something about Eccleshill United and how the club is perceived," said Benson.

"I've been staggered at the number of applicants we have had and with what each one has to offer from a different viewpoint.

"The closing date for applications is this coming Wednesday, so what is already a difficult task for us could become almost impossible.

"Obviously things are being treated in strictest confidence but I'm giving nothing away by confirming that we've had applications from people who are in jobs, with clubs at a good level, and from people who had a break and are looking to get back into the game.

"There have also been applications from ambitious people working in leagues below and highly-qualified coaches who are at clubs higher up the ladder – and what has struck me is that they have all understood what we are trying to achieve.

"My e-mail inbox has been pinging non-stop since the news went out and we have another few days before we close it off. Then we have to draw up a short list and begin interviews.

"I think we may have to have a second round of interviews, so it will take at least two weeks after the deadline before any announcement is likely."