Derby tempt head coach John Eustace from Blackburn

English Championship club Derby County on Thursday announced the appointment of John Eustace as their new manager after he left rivals Blackburn Rovers.

Blackburn, fifth in the second tier, wanted to keep Eustace as head coach, at least until the end of the season, but he has chosen to take over the relegation-threatened Rams, who are 21st in the table.

Derby sacked Paul Warne last week and swiftly moved for Eustace, who enjoyed two stints at Pride Park during his playing career.

Eustace, 45, has signed a contract that runs until the end of the 2027/28 season.

"I'm excited to welcome John back to Derby County," said owner David Clowes. "Fans will remember him for his craft, commitment and intelligence. He was a real leader.

"I've followed his managerial career with interest and it's clear he has the qualities we need to maintain our progress.

"He helped both Queens Park Rangers and Birmingham City avoid relegation, before taking Birmingham to sixth place prior to his departure.

"He has repeated that achievement at Blackburn Rovers, leaving behind a team in the play-off places."

Blackburn said they were disappointed to lose Eustace at such a crucial stage of the season.

But the club added: "We fully understand that the opportunity to move closer to his family and return to a former club played a significant role in his choice."