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Norwich have appointed Hartlepool's Paul Stephenson as their new first-team coach.

Hartlepool had been reluctant to formally release the 39-year-old from his post as youth-team coach but a deal has now been struck up between the two clubs.

City boss Glenn Roeder told the Norwich Evening News: "Paul Stephenson has finally been released by Hartlepool. It has taken longer than expected but I think it was worth the wait.

"He will make a big impression with the squad. I think that with three different types of personality with Lee (Clark), myself and Paul, we will make a good team."

It was reported that United were refusing to release the the former Newcastle winger unless their terms were met, and Roeder added: "We will probably help Hartlepool out with one or two loan players."