Championship manager LEAVES club to join league rivals despite sitting in play-off spot

Derby have confirmed the appointment of John Eustace after his departure from Blackburn Rovers. In a club statement, the Rams said: 'Derby County are delighted to announce the appointment of John Eustace as Head Coach'. The 45 year old has signed a deal until the summer of 2028 and will be joined by Assistant Head Coach Matt Gardiner and First Team Coach Keith Downing. Owner David Clowes said: 'I'm excited to welcome John back to Derby County. 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. Derby confirmed the appointment of John Eustace after his departure from Blackburn Rovers.

In a statement by Blackburn, the club expressed their 'disappointment' in Eustace's decision. 'When we bought the club, I was moved by the passion, solidarity and shared belief that bonded all of us who cared about Derby County. From the players, to the staff and to every single fan, we shared a determination to save the club and drive it forward. 'It's the same bond we need now as we get behind John and the players for these final 14 games. That bond was clear at Norwich last Saturday, a team fighting and refusing to be beaten, urged on by our magnificent support.

'This is now a season within a season and it's time for that passion, solidarity and shared belief again, to show what the Rams mean to us all.'. Meanwhile, in their own statement, Blackburn said: 'Blackburn Rovers can confirm that John Eustace has left his role as Head Coach to take up a position with another Championship club. 'While we are disappointed by his decision to leave at this crucial stage of the season, 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.

'The club had hoped that John would see out the season and continue the fantastic work he has done, particularly after strengthening the squad in January and guiding us into a strong position in the league. 'However, with 14 games remaining and a real chance to push for a play-off place, the focus remains on achieving our ambitions. Blackburn said: 'We fully understand that the opportunity to move closer to his family'.