Alan Pardew is desperate to keep hold of the former Manchester United youth product, and there is nothing at all to suggest he will sign for Villa.
Newcastle have offered Simpson a new five-year deal, but it falls short of the package he is looking for.
But who in their right mind would sign for McLeish ... who is odds on the either be sacked; shot; or found in a pillar holding up Spaghetti Junction!
McLeish is looking to hit the ground running to win over fans rather ... errrr ... 'critical' of his appointment.
But McLeish insists his previous experiences when in charge of Rangers means he is thick-skinned enough to cope with the switch from Birmingham to Aston Villa.
McLeish's move has made him public enemy number one with some sections of Blues and Villa fans after his move across the city on a three-year contract.
There has even been speculation that McLeish's own safety could be at risk from some supporters.
But McLeish coped with the intense Rangers-Celtic rivalry in Glasgow and believes that will stand him in good stead for what lies ahead.
He said: "I've got to have thick skin. I managed Rangers. I got it in the neck from those fans up there at times and I came through that and I'll come through this.
"That experience doesn't make me absolutely totally used to it. No one can ever get used to it.
"But I am thick-skinned, I've had experience of it and that should stand me in good stead.
"I'm sure a few people wanted to punch me! At the same time, I can understand the passions and emotions of football.
"As long as it doesn't get out of control, then I can understand people's feelings.
"Have the passion but don't let it don't to extremes."
NEWCASTLE UTD FIXTURES:-
Saturday 13th August 2011
Newcastle United v Arsenal 15:00
Saturday 20th August 2011
Sunderland v Newcastle United 15:00
Saturday 27th August 2011
Newcastle United v Fulham 15:00
Saturday 10th September 2011
Queens Park Rangers v Newcastle United 15:00
Saturday 17th September 2011
Aston Villa v Newcastle United 15:00
Saturday 24th September 2011
Newcastle United v Blackburn Rovers 15:00
Saturday 01st October 2011
Wolverhampton Wanderers v Newcastle United 15:00
Offer To Toon Fans Continues
Due to the amazing response from NU-Mad readers ... we have decided to continue our offer for you to buy "Magpies In Europe" for the amazing price of £5.99. The offer will end July 1st.
A 'THANK YOU' TO FOOTYMAD READERS ...
'MAGPIES IN EUROPE'
FOR £5.99 (inc post)
2010/11 has been NewcastleUtd-Mad's greatest season for page 'hits', and as a thank you to all readers we are giving you the chance (FOR TWO WEEKS ONLY) to purchase "MAGPIES IN EUROPE" for £5.99 (and that includes the postage).
*Normal price is £9.99
OFFER ENDS JULY 1st 2011
Although "Magpies In Europe" will not be launched OFFICIALLY until next season ... if you want a copy it is available NOW from this website ... and ONLY from this website!
FOREWORD BY FAIRS CUP HERO JOHN McNAMEE
Sports Journalist Richie Everson: "At last a book that the fabulous Newcastle United fans can relate to. It's informative, all the facts and figures are there, plus the 120 match reports from all the fixtures ... but it is the articles by the supporters that amazed me.
"I went to many of those games, and this is the only book I can honestly say 'hits the nail on the head'!
"Yes we know the results and the scorers, but some of the facts in this book had me so wrapped up in it I couldn't put it down.
"Was Benny Arentoft cup-tied when he played in the final? Big Wyn and his battle with John McGrath; McFaul scoring a penalty when the crowd had gone home; the trouble in Palermo; it is all amazing stuff.
"I would honestly give this book 10 out of 10."
MAGPIES IN EUROPE
From Antwerp to Zurich
Please include your address in a letter and send a cheque (or postal order) for £5.99 payable to Mr K Fletcher, to:
'MAGPIES IN EUROPE', K Fletcher, 5 Dunelm, Sacriston, Co Durham DH7 6NU.
Or contact: Kevnumad@fsmail.net