Alex Neil is confident Norwich City have the interim structure to kick on with plans for next season – and proved the point with his first summer re-signing.

Director of finance Steve Stone was drafted in as interim chief executive following David McNally's resignation earlier this month, and the City boss is adamant the current structure allows him to get on with his transfer plans – and allows the City board the longest time possible to make a longer-term appointment.

That bore fruit with Monday night's confirmation Scottish defender Steven Whittaker, 31, has extended his City stay until next summer, with the option of one more year.

'We know the situation and have a structure in place now, whether it is to deal with bringing in players, letting players go or renegotiating contracts,' said Neil.

'Those discussions pretty much started immediately. We've found ourselves with a good solution at this moment in time because we need to give ourselves the best opportunity to go back up.'

More news on City's ongoing search for McNally's replacement is expected this week.

Whittaker did not feature for City after October and had been linked with moves away in January and this summer.

'It's important we've got guys who have been in the Championship and done it before, and Steven has so it makes sense,' said Neil. 'The focus is now on Steven to show he is worth his contract.'

Whittaker added: 'The manager reminded me of the job I did for him in the Championship and he believes I can do that again. I'm here, ready to get to work to battle for my place.'

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