Bookmakers are backing Mark McGhee (left) and Eric Black
After expressing delight at the high calibre of applicants, Willie Miller has urged patience as Aberdeen continue their search for a new manager.
The Dons director of football shares fans' frustration as the process of replacing Jimmy Calderwood continues.
But Miller told the club website: "The simple fact is, these things do take a bit of time.
"The fact there are several senior vacancies up for grabs at present probably hasn't helped either."
Motherwell manager Mark McGhee remains the favourite for the post but the uncertainty surrounding the post at Celtic could be a stumbling block for the Dons.
Falkirk manager John Hughes, Plymouth's Paul Sturrock and Wigan assistant Eric Black have also been linked with the job, while former Aberdeen players Lee Richardson and Noel Whelan have declared their interest.
"I know patience is not something that sits easily in football but that really is the message right now," said Miller.
"The fact nobody has been appointed yet has not affected plans for the new season in that we are currently finalising our pre-season plans and the players are all aware of what is expected of them in terms of fitness levels on their return.
"I am working flat out to finalise matters and as soon as I have done that, we will be in a position to make an announcement ahead of what I am confident will be an exciting era for the club."
Miller said on Tuesday that former international managers, former Scotland players, ex-international players from throughout Europe and people working in the English Premier League had already submitted applications.
He also revealed that there had been expressions of interest from former Uefa Cup winners and from Holland, Poland and the Faroe Islands.
He added: "There has been a considerable number of former Aberdeen players interested in returning and it's obvious just what a high regard they hold the club in and what fond memories they have of their time here.
"I would emphasise that, while we want to make an appointment as soon as possible, it is absolutely vital that we undertake all the due diligence required to ensure the appointment is the correct one ."
Calderwood left Pittodrie hours after leading them into the Europa League with a 2-1 victory over Hibernian in the final game of his five-year reign.
Aberdeen players will return to training on 29 June, with a pre-season tour of Austria planned, while their season begins in the Europa League qualifiers on 30 July.
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