Coe's responsibilities as chairman of the London 2012 Olympics rules him out of the chief executive's role but, given that he is already a non-executive director of UK Athletics the new post, which is expected to pay an annual six-figure salary, could prove tempting to the 1980 and 1984 Olympic 1500 metres champion.

 

Moorcroft's announcement that he will step down as chief executive within the next six months has led UKA to consider revamping their command structure.

 

The appointment of a chairman a move would meet with the approval of UK Sport and the British Olympic Association, especially with athletics viewed as the most important Olympic sport.

 

UKA will set up a working group under another non-executive director Ian Fox to oversee the appointments.

 

The organisation said in a statement: "The working group will be looking at all options available to them and will consider the possibility of creating the post of chairman of UK Athletics to work alongside the new CEO.

 

"It is important for the future direction of UK Athletics that all avenues are explored and decisions taken that are right for moving the sport forward."

 

The recruitment process will include the selection of recruitment consultants and an interview panel.

 

The statement added: "The role is one of the biggest in British sport and it is important to ensure a thorough rather than hasty process. David Moorcroft will remain in position for this transition period to ensure continued leadership for UK Athletics

 

Jon Ridgeon, the 1987 world 110m hurdles silver medallist who now works for the sports marketing firm Fast Track, is the favourite to replace Moorcroft although the successful candidate may have no connection with athletics.

 

Steve Cram, the former world record holder for both the 1500m and mile, has ruled already himself out of the running for the chief executive's role because of commitments to the BBC and English Institute for Sport but he could be tempted by the chairman's post.