John Eustace has departed Blackburn Rovers to take up the managerial position at Championship rivals, Derby County.
Eustace’s move to Pride Park on a three-and-a-half year contract until June 2028 comes after extensive negotiations following Derby’s decision to sack Paul Warne last week (7 February).
His exit also comes just hours after Blackburn beat play-off-chasing rivals, West Bromwich Albion to go fifth in the Championship table.
Derby owner, David Clowes is “excited” to appoint Eustace as manager, with the Solihull-born boss having played for Derby twice during his playing career – initially on loan in 2009 then again from 2013-15 before he retired with fans remembering him “…. for his craft, commitment and intelligence. He was a real leader.”
Clowes proceeded to explain that he has followed Eustace’s step into management which has seen him keep QPR and Birmingham City up, before he guided the latter to sixth place before he was sacked following a takeover which saw the Blues ultimately relegated at the end of last season.
Looking ahead to the Rams’ future under Eustace, Clowes added: “I am thrilled that he shares our belief in the potential of Derby County and that he wants to play a leading role in our plans.
“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. From the players, to the staff and to every single fan, we shared a determination to save the club and drive it forward.
“It’s the same bond we need now as we get behind John and the players for these final 14 games. That bond was clear at Norwich last Saturday, a team fighting and refusing to be beaten, urged on by our magnificent support.”
Eustace’s bow as Derby manager will come away to his former team, QPR tomorrow (14 February) at Loftus Road live on Sky Sports in the UK.
Blackburn meanwhile issued their own statement confirming that they’re “disappointed” to see Eustace depart at a “crucial stage of the season,” but respect his decision “… to move closer to his family and return to a former club played a significant role in his choice.”
Rovers however iterated that the play-offs remain their priority but are now relishing the “exciting opportunity” that awaits his replacement, with belief currently high amongst the playing squad.
“We remain in a good place in the league and the togetherness of the players, staff and supporters can all play a huge role in making it a successful end to the season.”
David Lowe will take interim charge of the first-team squad until a permanent successor is announced in due course.