Norwich City have begun their search for a new leader of their player recruitment, after Barry Simmonds left the club on Tuesday – eight months into the job.

A 46-word statement on the club's website confirmed Simmonds exit, and City's bid to replace him.

'City can confirm head of football recruitment Barry Simmonds has left the club with immediate effect,' it read. 'The club would like to thank Barry for his efforts this season and the search for a new person to head up Norwich City's player recruitment operation is already underway.'

Simmonds arrived in the summer, effectively taking Ewan Chester's role following the Scot's departure and the Canaries' reorganisation following Premier League relegation.

Chester is currently chief scout for Brighton manager and former City boss Chris Hughton, who the Canaries come up against in the Championship at The Amex on Good Friday after the current international break.

Simmonds' departure leaves a vacant seat on the Canaries' football executive board, created in the summer, alongside current manager Alex Neil, chief executive David McNally and technical director Ricky Martin.

The news comes two days before the closure of the Football League loan window, which shuts at 5pm on Thursday.

City are looking to confirm the extension of Graham Dorrans' loan from West Bromwich Albion, while they have also been linked with a move for young Arsenal striker Chuba Akpom.

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