Blackburn Rovers manager John Eustace has parted ways with the fifth-placed Championship side to take over at relegation-threatened Derby County, the two clubs said on Thursday.

Derby have announced the appointment of John Eustace as their new head coach. Blackburn, fifth in the Sky Bet Championship, made it clear they wanted to keep Eustace as manager – at least until the end of the season. However, he has chosen to take over the relegation-threatened Rams, who lie 21st in the table.

Derby County are delighted to announce the appointment of John Eustace as Head Coach. John returns to Pride Park Stadium after two spells as a player, on loan in 2009 and for the final two years of his playing career from 2013-15.