As new clubs and franchises enter the A-League, the demand for head coaches becomes increasingly important. North Queensland's new franchise which will be based in Townsville have begun their search for the man to lead the club and it seems that Adelaide United assistant Phil Stubbins is on top of their wish list.

Townsville chairman Don Matheson spoke highly of Stubbins after an interview last week and was quick to point out that there would be no poaching from current clubs when deciding who their man was.

Speaking to Foxsports, he said, "We want the coach to come here in good stead with the club that they're leaving so that's important for us. We'll do it out of respect."

Although Matheson seemed confident of getting his man, Stubbins spoke of his relationship with Adelaide United coach Aurelio Vidmar, possibly putting a spanner in the Townsville works.

"I don't think many, if any of the coaching staff in the league has a relationship like we've got. Just as mateship now, it's a very sound partnership that we've got going.

"I'm more than happy with the job I've got here. My allegiance as it still stands is with the club.

"Nothing's changed at all."

Townsville have interviewed other potential candidates and the club's football director Blair Burke is expected to make a decision very soon.