Gary Rowett: Derby County appoint ex-Birmingham City boss as manager

Gary Rowett returns to management after being sacked by Birmingham City in December

Gary Rowett has been appointed as Derby County manager until the end of the 2018-19 season.

Derby, 10th in the Championship, sacked Steve McClaren on Sunday, five months into his second spell in charge.

Rowett is the Rams' fifth manager in 13 months following Paul Clement, Darren Wassall, Nigel Pearson and McClaren.

Rowett, who was sacked by Birmingham in December, made 120 outings for the Rams from 1995 to 1998, admitting that he has a "special bond" with the club.

"During that time," he said, "we tasted success when we were promoted to the Premiership (1995-96) and moved to Pride Park under Jim Smith.

"Living in the local area, I understand the expectation of the fan base and it goes without saying that Derby County have fantastic and committed supporters.

"I have coached in the academy in the past so I know the values of the club and I am looking forward to sharing my experience and knowledge of the league with the staff and players."

The ex-Burton Albion manager was also linked with the vacant Norwich job and also held talks with Rangers.

He has brought in Kevin Summerfield as assistant manager, Mark Sale as first-team coach, Kevin Poole as goalkeeping coach and Joe Carnall as head of performance analysis.

Current first-team coach Kevin Phillips will continue as part of the set-up but Pascal Zuberbuhler has left his role as goalkeeping coach.

"Gary is being tasked with, and has the full responsibility for, leading our redevelopment programme," said Derby chairman Mel Morris.

"He is an exemplar of the qualities and values we want in our team and has clearly demonstrated his abilities to get that from his players too."

Rowett's management credentials

• Burton Albion (March 2012-October 2014) - Games 142. Won 63, drew 34, lost 45

• Birmingham City (October 2014-December 2016) - Games 106. Won 42. drew 32, lost 32