John Eustace QUITS Blackburn for Derby as club release...

DERBY COUNTY have announced John Eustace as their new manager. The gaffer has linked up with his former playing club after leaving Championship rivals Blackburn Rovers. Eustace shocked the play-off hopefuls when he activated a shock release clause in his contract to hold talks with Derby. The Rams targeted Eustace after sacking Paul Warne last week. And Rovers were forced to release a statement clarifying the situation while also slamming Eustace for forcing through an exit.

Image Credit: The Sun [Photo of John Eustace, manager of Blackburn Rovers.]

But a deal taking him to Pride Park has now gone through. The former Rams midfielder has penned a contract until 2028. And Eustace will be joined in the dugout by assistant boss Matt Gardiner and first-team coach Keith Downing. Derby 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.

JOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUS. “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. "I am thrilled that he shares our belief in the potential of Derby County and that he wants to play a leading role in our plans. "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.”. THIS IS A DEVELOPING STORY.. The Sun is your go to destination for the best football, boxing and MMA news, real-life stories, jaw-dropping pictures and must-see video.Like us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/TheSunFootball and follow us from our main Twitter account at @TheSunFootball.