Simpson is relishing the opportunity to manage Preston

The former Carlisle boss was officially unveiled as North End's manager on Monday after signing a three-year deal.

"It's everything that goes with a Championship club that attracted me to the job," he told Preston's website.

"It's a step up from the level I've been working at, but I've worked hard to get this opportunity and I won't let it go lightly."

Simpson added: "I want to go into Carlisle United when the club was on its knees and we had two promotions.

"We cleared �600,000 off the wage bill and a huge chunk of debt off the overdraft and I've left Carlisle United in a much stronger position than when I went in.