Former Newcastle United defender Danny Simpson has come out of retirement to join Arabian Falcons FC as a player-coach, becoming Jonjo Shelvey's first major signing since taking over as manager of the UAE second division side earlier this year.
Simpson returns to football after two-year retirement
Simpson, who played for Newcastle between 2009 and 2013 before winning the Premier League with Leicester City in 2016, had announced his retirement from playing two years ago. However, he has been tempted back to join Shelvey's ambitious project in Dubai, where he will also link up with former Southampton winger Jason Puncheon, the club's co-owner and head of football operations, and ex-Manchester United star Ravel Morrison.
“The opportunity to join Jonjo and this exciting project was one I couldn’t turn down,” Simpson said. “I still have plenty to offer on the pitch, and I’m looking forward to helping the team achieve its ambitions. The club has a clear plan, and I want to play my part in delivering a successful promotion-winning campaign.”
Shelvey and Puncheon praise signing
Shelvey, who retired from playing earlier this year to take the managerial role, expressed his delight at bringing Simpson on board. “I’m really pleased to welcome Danny Simpson to Arabian Falcons. After stepping in for the last five games last season and coming so close to promotion, we now have the opportunity to build properly in my first full campaign,” Shelvey said. “Danny is the ideal signing - a Premier League champion with vast experience, leadership, and a winning mentality. He strengthens us immediately on the pitch and will be invaluable in helping develop the squad. This is the start of us building a team I firmly believe can win promotion this season.”
Puncheon added: “This signing sends a strong message about our ambition. Jonjo has already shown what he can do in a short space of time, and with Danny arriving we are building real strength and character in the squad. We are fully focused on making this a successful season and securing promotion to the UAE First Division.”
Ambitious project in UAE second division
Arabian Falcons FC narrowly missed promotion last season, finishing close to the top after Shelvey took charge for the final five games. The club is now building for a sustained push under Shelvey's leadership, with Simpson's experience expected to play a key role both on and off the pitch.
