In a statement, Blackburn said: “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.
“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.
“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.”.
Derby sacked Paul Warne last week and swiftly moved for Eustace, who enjoyed two stints at Pride Park during his playing career.
