UKA no nearer finding new chief

The search goes on to find a successor for the outgoing Jones

UK Athletics has yet to find a replacement for outgoing performance director Max Jones after the two main contenders dropped out of the running.

Charles van Commenee withdrew to take up a post in the Netherlands while Briton Keith Connor seems certain to continue coaching in Australia.

"We are seeking the best talent available and the search is ongoing," a UK Athletics statement said.

Jones is expected to officially step down from the post next March.

But British athletics chiefs had hoped to have someone installed before Christmas when Jones aimed to have less to do with the day-to-day running of the sport.

Van Commenee was tipped to take over but decided to accept the role of overall sports technical director for the Netherlands Olympic Committee.

Former British triple jumper Connor then appeared to be in pole position before it emerged he might be persuaded to stay on Australia's coaching staff.

The 47-year-old's contract as head coach for Athletics Australia runs out at the end of the year.

Elliot in plea to Connor

But in a recommended shake-up of the sport Down Under, Connor could be invited to apply for the future role of performance director.

Former Olympian Herb Elliot, who chaired an Australian Sports Commission review of athletics, has urged Connor to continue his work in Australia.

Double Olympic decathlon gold medallist Daley Thompson, Olympic 100m winner Linford Christie and UKA's technical director for throws, John Trower have all been linked with the post.

But UK Athletics could be forced to settle for a temporary solution as Jones, who became performance director in 1998, prepares to leave office.