Flynn loses Rochdale race

28/05/02

Rochdale AFC's official web site in the story "Simmo offered the job" today reports that Rochdale midfielder Paul Simpson has been offered the manager's job at Spotland - thus ruling out the possible appointment of former Wrexham boss Brian Flynn - who was widely tipped to be in the frame.

The official club statement reads: "Paul Simpson has been offered the vacant manager's position at Rochdale AFC and the board will find out later if he wants it. A scheduled press conference for Thursday has been re-arranged because of Tom Nichols funeral and the club will hopefully announce the management team on Wednesday morning if 'Simmo' accepts the offer put to him".

The 35-year-old Carlisle-born attacking midfielder arrived at Spotland in the middle of March from fellow Lancastrians Blackpool.

Former England Youth international Simpson, who scored in both of his first two games for Rochdale, is due back in England today after taking part in a competition with a PFA team in Hong Kong.

Ex-Red Dragons supremo Flynn was close to being appointed Swansea City manager last month, but the two sides couldn't agree terms, and the deal fell through.