Shrewsbury Town boss Paul Simpson today welcomed the shock appointment of Sven-Goran Eriksson as director of football at League Two rivals Notts County.

The Swede, who took England to the World Cup in Germany three years ago, will arrive at Meadow Lane after being lured by wealthy new Middle Eastern owners Munto Finance.

Simpson believes Eriksson’s arrival can only help boost the profile of the division – but questioned whether the former Lazio and Manchester City manager would know enough about League Two players to make an immediate impact.

“I think he’s a top, experienced manager who’s worked all over the world,” said Simpson.

“His record in club football is magnificent and I even think he did a good job for England – it was some of the other bits and pieces that happened around that time that people didn’t like.

“I’m sure he’s got knowledge and experience that can help Ian McParland (the Notts County manager), but I’d just question whether he knows a lot about players at this level.

“I don’t really think you need a director of football in League Two, but if they’ve got the money then they can do whatever they want with it.”

County have already taken former Town skipper Ben Davies this summer, and also yesterday announced the signing of former Shrewsbury striker Luke Rodgers.

Together with other lucrative deals, the Magpies have made their intentions clear and Simpson added: “I already knew they have serious money because of the contract they offered Ben Davies.

“It will be interesting to see how Eriksson goes but I don’t think you will see a similar role being created at other clubs at this level – the rest of us are looking to save money!”

Eriksson will look after the club’s youth academy as well as player development, transfer negotiations and building overseas links.

And the 61-year-old Swede, who will work with long-standing assistant Tord Grip, is looking forward to the challenge.

“I am particularly attracted to this role and the unique opportunity to help build a club over the longer term,” he said.

“We hope to leave a long and lasting legacy for Notts County and its fans,”added Eriksson.

By CHRIS HUDSON