Derby County is delighted to announce that Nigel Clough has been appointed the new manager of the football club.

He has today signed a three-an-a-half-year contract and will be attending Pride Park on Wednesday evening for the Carling Cup semi-final clash with Manchester United.

The 42-year-old will take charge of first team affairs on Thursday January 8 2009.

Current caretaker manager Chris Hutchings has left the club with immediate effect.

David Lowe will take charge of the first team for the match against Manchester United, assisted by Brian Burrows.

Nigel Clough's first game in charge of the Rams will be this Saturday's Championship fixture away to Cardiff City.