PAUL Simpson’s tenure as Northwich manager will end following this Saturday’s FA Trophy quarter final.

The 45-year-old moves to Portugal next week after accepting an offer to take over as head coach at an academy for teenage players released from contracts at professional clubs.

He has been with Vics for less than a month.

“It’s an opportunity that I simply have to take,” he said.

“Since I left Stockport [at the start of last year], I’ve applied for jobs working with younger players at academies, so this is a perfect role for me.

“I didn’t expect to be asked to start so soon, which is why I agreed to help out Northwich, but they want me to be there from the start of next month.”

Simpson told the players of his impending departure following Saturday’s 3-2 win against North Ferriby United, his second in as many matches since replacing Andy Preece as manager.

Vics owner Jim Rushe has persuaded the former Carlisle boss to pick the team for final time when Blue Square Bet Premier outfit Newport County visit Cheshire this weekend.

The Guardian understands that Alan Wright, brought in as Simpson’s right hand man, is staying with the Evo-Stik NPL Premier Division club, although no decision has been taken as to what his role will be.

Simpson will work for VisionPro Sports Institute, which offers funded two-years scholarships to young players seeking a route back into the game.

The firm moved to Rio Maior in January after basing itself initially at La Manga, Spain.