YORK City Knights have received eight applications for the role of chief executive at Huntington Stadium - even though the job isn't up for grabs.

And the Evening Press understands that, although no names have been divulged, at least three of those applicants are currently involved in the game at Super League or National League One clubs.

The club received the on spec applications following the announcement last week that present incumbent Steve Ferres was to leave the post after tomorrow's opening game of the 2005 season, away to Castleford in the Northern Rail Cup.

The club, however, have not advertised the position and told the Press last week that, with the organisational structure now in place at Huntington Stadium, they would "see how it goes" without a chief executive as such before deciding whether they need to appoint someone specifically into that role.

All eight applicants are believed to be "top quality", while the fact that at least three of them were willing to step down from their present clubs to National League Two in order to be at the Knights suggests the progressive York outfit are well regarded throughout rugby league as they head into their third season since reforming.

Updated: 10:30 Saturday, February 12, 2005