Steve McClaren wants Newcastle United staff in 'before pre-season'

Steve McClaren worked with Paul Simpson and Bill Beswick as assistants at Derby and Middlesbrough respectively

Head coach Steve McClaren hopes to have named his coaching team at Newcastle United before the players return for pre-season training on 1 July.

The ex-England boss worked with Paul Simpson and Eric Steele at Derby, while Bill Beswick was his assistant during his time at Middlesbrough.

However, the 54-year-old says he is "open-minded" about who might become part of the staff at St James' Park.

"I'm looking for the best," McClaren told BBC Newcastle.

"It can be difficult because good people are always working elsewhere. No doubt though, I want my team in by next week, with a good week to 10 days to prepare."

McClaren took over from interim coach John Carver who, along with fellow coach Steve Stone, was sacked by Newcastle earlier this month.