Nigel Clough is today revealed as the new manager of Derby County with a vision to grow with the club over the coming years.

The 42-year-old is regarded as one of the most talented young bosses in the game and takes over after a ten-year spell at Burton Albion that saw the Brewers improve their league position each season.

He has signed a three-and-a-half-year deal.

Clough becomes Derby's 28th full-time manager will command the respect of the talented squad of players he has available to him.

He said: "This is a fantastic opportunity for me and one that I relish.

"I know the club inside-out. It has always had a special place in mine and my family's heart and I know that this is one of the most exciting jobs in football.

"Derby County has everything - tremendous support, a first-class stadium, magnificent training facilities and an ambitious ownership group looking to grow the club even further.

"Also, we have a terrific squad of players already here and I can't wait to start working with them.

"This is going to be a tremendous challenge."

Clough will be revealed to fans at Pride Park Stadium on Wednesday night ahead of the Carling Cup semi-final first leg against Manchester United, and takes charge of first-team matters from Thursday morning.

Current caretaker manager Chris Hutchings leaves the club with immediate effect.

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

The appointment of Clough brings to an end Derby's search for a new gaffer that began at the end of December following the resignation of Paul Jewell.

Chairman of football Adam Pearson says Clough brings with him enthusiasm, hunger and tremendous man management skills.

He said: "Nigel is the ideal choice at this time. It is going to be a great challenge for him and all of us at Derby County, but one that we are all looking forward to.

"His track record at Burton Albion is top-drawer and has improved their standing every season he has been at the club, along with being an excellent man-manager.

"It is that kind of progress we are looking for now - someone to grow with the club and lead us in the long-term towards success.

"We have a great squad of players here and Nigel is capable of getting the very best out of them and playing a style of football the supporters want to see.

"Also, he understands this football club and what it means to the people of Derby better than anyone else in the game."

Clough's appointment is described by CEO and President Tom Glick as a major coup.

He said: "I have no doubt that Nigel will get a phenomenal reception when he is presented to the supporters ahead of kick-off against Manchester United.

"This is a tremendously exciting appointment and one that the entire Derby County family will rally behind - owners, players, staff and the fans.

"I think we have some exciting times ahead."

Clough follows in the footsteps of his late father Brian, who was Derby's boss for a successful spell from the summer of 1967 to October 1973.