MARK Thompson remains the most likely candidate for the Essendon interim coaching job, with Neil Craig favoured to be given an assistant role.

Rumours abounded on Wednesday morning that the Bombers were set to make announce who would lead the club in 2014 in James Hird's absence.

However, AFL.com.au understands it is unlikely any announcement will be made until Thursday at the earliest.

North Melbourne is linked to the decision given it has offered former Sydney Swans assistant Leigh Tudor a coaching role if he doesn't get the Essendon job.

Tudor has been in line for the position at Windy Hill along with former Adelaide and interim Melbourne coach Craig, while News Limited reported on Wednesday Mark Harvey was out of contention.

North CEO Carl Dilena said the Roos believed all could be revealed on Wednesday.

"That's some of the rumours we're hearing," Dilena told SEN.

"I think [Essendon is] at the back end of the process.

"I've heard from a couple of different people there may be something today but we're not sure."

Dilena said the Roos would support Tudor whichever way the decision fell.

"We've effectively agreed to a contract with Leigh, but the way it generally works with a senior assistant is there's a gentleman's agreement if they secure a senior coaching role - you release them from their obligations," he said.

"That's where we're at at the moment.

"Leigh was interviewing with West Coast and Brisbane initially, and at the back end of the Essendon process.

"We're hopeful. Obviously, we look after his best interests if he gets the role but possibly if there's an announcement today and he doesn't get the role, he'll be with us for 2014."

Dilena also confirmed three-time Geelong premiership midfielder Cameron Ling would work with the Roos' leadership group next season one day a week, and hoped the former captain would choose the club if he moved into full-time coaching in 2015.

Twitter: @AFL_JenPhelan