Steve McClaren set to add Derby County’s Paul Simpson to Newcastle United coaching team

The Rams released a statement last night confirming Simpson’s impending departure after two years as first team coach at the iPro Stadium.

The 48-year-old, who worked under McClaren during his spell in charge at Derby, will now be reunited with the former England boss at St James’s Park.

The statement said: “Derby County wishes to this evening announce that Paul Simpson will depart from the club’s employment from 1st July 2015.

“Simpson took up the position of first team coach in September 2013 following the arrival of Steve McClaren.”

Simpson’s exit comes as little surprise, with new Derby manager Paul Clement assembling his own staff at a time when McClaren is busily working to put together a new backroom team on Tyneside.

Derby president and chief executive Sam Rush told the club’s website: “Paul Simpson leaves Derby County with our thanks for his contribution to the club, both as a player and also on the coaching staff. We wish Paul every success for the future in his coaching career.”

McClaren has gradually managed to put together his staff for a new challenge at Newcastle after a lengthy search which saw the club talk to the likes of Phil Neville, Bolo Zenden and Steve Round.

Former Valencia assistant manager