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Newcastle United are set to finally confirm their backroom staff ahead of tomorrow’s return of the first-team squad for pre-season – but are still awaiting resolution of bids lodged in recent days.

United head coach Steve McClaren will be assisted by Ian Cathro, who confirmed his imminent appointment on Monday, and assistant boss Paul Simpson – who has left Derby in anticipation of his appointment at St James’ Park.

Fitness coach Alessandro Schoenmaker and Steve Black will also join United’s backroom team, the former having been introduced to some support staff at Newcastle.

Cathro says he is joining a club which is on the up.

“Steve coming in has brought a freshness and enthusiasm to get the club back to where it should be and serve the love that exists for it,” he said after confirming he would join Newcastle, who also approached Steve Round and Bolo Zenden about the vacancy.

“I’m convinced it’s a club willing to grow and would be comfortable higher in the league. It’s now ready to do that.”

It is the need for new players which is most important, though – and it is understood United have now tabled at least three bids for new players.

One of those is for Schalke defender Joel Matip, although United appear no closer to deals for Charlie Austin and Bas Dost – two of their major striker targets.

Boss McClaren says he is happy to wait for the “right” players but the need for reinforcements is clear and despite Mike Ashley’s end-of-season address Newcastle fans are waiting for signs talk of a new era is more than just talk.

United’s moves this summer have been plotted against a backdrop of frustration and cynicism and the club have pushed back the season ticket deadline several times this close season – a move accompanied by emails and letters claiming a new team would be built for the new season.