Since Gallop's unexpected departure was revealed this afternoon, speculation began to circulate linking Gallop to take over from Buckley in the football hotseat.

Buckley has also been strongly linked with a move to take over at North Melbourne AFL club, clearing the way for Gallop to step in.

This afternoon Gallop refused to discuss his future at this stage and said people should 'wait and see' on a possible move into other codes, fueling the rumours of move into football.

Gallop was in the NRL role for 10 years while Buckley has been with the FFA for the past six, after a playing career in AFL with North Melbourne  - where he was captain - before joining Nike and EA Sports in a high-flying business career.

Since joining the FFA in 2006, Buckley oversaw the disappointing World Cup bid and the axeing of expansion clubs North Queensland Fury and Gold Coast United, but was expected to remain until the new TV deal had been concluded.

Tonight Buckley sidestepped the issue but in a statement, he paid tribute to Gallop's level headed leadership.

"Over the past 10 years David Gallop has overseen some critical moments in rugby league's administration in Australia and I have always admired his composure and class when dealing with the big issues of the day," Buckley said in the statement.

"I've enjoyed working alongside David in COMPPS (Coalition of Major Participation and Professional Sports) and found him to be great company whenever our paths have crossed.

"I'm sure his contribution to the game will be warmly acknowledged by everyone inside and outside of league."