Chester are set to draw up a shortlist of candidates as the club close in on Marcus Bignot’s successor.

The beleaguered club, already-relegated from the National League, are seeking their fifth permanent manager in eight years following Bignot’s sacking last week.

The Blues stated on their website that they would be accepting applications up until Thursday (5pm) and are now set to draw up a shortlist of candidates who will be interviewed during the early part of next week, and an appointment could be made prior to next weekend's trip to Barrow.

The CFU board confirmed at an informal meeting with supporters on Wednesday night that two experienced former Football League managers are aiding the recruitment process, with one set to sit on the interview panel.

A host of former players have been linked with the role, including Andy Holden, Shaun Reid, Gary Brabin and former skipper Paul Carden, although the latter effectively ruled himself out of the running on Tuesday.

Former TNS boss Craig Harrison, who left Hartlepool United earlier this season, and Witton Albion manager Carl Macauley have both been linked, while former Tranmere boss Ronnie Moore is understood to have applied.

Caretaker boss Calum McIntyre remains favourite with bookmakers but has stated he doesn’t want the role on a permanent basis. However, the board are understood to still be keen on promoting the 24-year-old on a full-time basis.

Former Halifax Town manager Billy Heath has emerged as a leading candidate after admitting he would be interested in speaking to Chester about their managerial vacancy and believes he has the ‘right credentials’ for the job.

Heath has won promotion out of National League North twice, with Halifax and North Ferriby United.

Heath told the Leader earlier this week: “My past two seasons in National League North, I’ve got two different clubs promoted. At Halifax we managed to bounce back after relegation, so I would say I’ve got the right credentials for a job like this one.”

Former Wigan and Chesterfield boss Gary Caldwell is understood to have applied, a move which could see Blues legend Graham Barrow potentially return as assistant manager.

Club director Calvin Hughes, head of Chester’s football working group, remains third favourite for the role with bookmakers BetVictor, while Doncaster Ladies boss Neil Redfearn and Altrincham manager Phil Parkinson have also been touted as possible replacements for Bignot.