Leigh Centurions would be Wakefield Trinity head coach Chris Chester's choice for Super League next year

A decision is due next week with Trinity’s neighbours Featherstone Rovers, Bradford Bulls, London Broncos, Toulouse Olympique and York City Knights also aiming to become the top-flight’s 12th club next season.

A vacancy remains in Super League after Toronto Wolfpack’s bid to rejoin the competition was rejected by a majority vote last month.

With each club bringing a different set of credentials, Chester is glad he won’t be involved with making the decision.

A seven-person panel chaired by Lord Jonathan Caine, and made up by three members each from the Rugby Football League and Super League, is set to deliver their decision on December 16.

“There is six that have applied and six there that have all got really good credentials,” said Chester.

“You saw the impact that London had 12 months ago. You have got Leigh there who have got a really good owner, a supportive owner that is willing to invest in the squad.

“They have a really good coach in John Duffy as well. For me, I would love to see Leigh in Super League next year.

“They have got the facilities and are building a good squad and have an investor there that is willing to support his coach.

“There is a lot of good clubs there. You look at Toulouse, I like the idea of Toulouse and you have Bradford and York, where James Ford is doing a fantastic job.

“Featherstone just missed out on going up two years ago. They have got a fantastic owner who is willing to back the coach. They have been there or thereabouts for the last three to four years.

“It is out of my hands but I think Leigh, with what they have signed this year, and a really passionate fanbase and owner; that would be my first pick.

“There are a lot of clubs there who have all got good people behind them and I certainly wouldn’t want to be making that call.”

With one club set to leave the Championship, one of five League 1 clubs is set to be promoted to the second tier on Thursday (today).

Barrow Raiders, Doncaster, Newcastle Thunder, Rochdale Hornets and Workington Town have all applied with a five-strong panel, chaired by former RFL President Air Commodore Dean Andrew OBE, assessing the applications.

Andrew said: “All five applications reflect well on the business acumen, enthusiasm, ambition and realism that exists in League 1. One club will be a fabulous addition to the Betfred Championship; the other four are already raising the bar on what will be a very competitive League 1 next season.”