ATHERTON LR have received 10 applications to date for their first team manager's position, after current manager Steve Plant decided to stand down and concentrate on his Director of Football role at the Crilly Park Club.

Steve said: "The closing date for applicants is Friday, and already we have received some very interesting CVs. I will spend the weekend sifting through the applications in preparation for the club's board meeting on Monday, when we will draw up a short list for interview.

"It is important we make the right choice, and we will not be rushed into a decision. The circumstances at the club are not ideal, particularly financially at present, however LR remains a big club with loads of potential, and the standard of some of the applicants reflects that."