Clough ready for Rams challenge

Clough: Looking forward to challenge

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Nigel Clough is relishing a 'tremendous challenge' at Derby County after being appointed the club's new manager.

The 42-year-old has ended a decade in charge of Burton Albion in order to replace Paul Jewell at Pride Park.

He has signed a three-and-a-half year contract and the job with the Championship side is his first in the Football League.

Clough, whose father Brian managed the Rams between 1967 and 1973, is looking forward to taking over a club which is close to his heart.

Exciting job

"This is a fantastic opportunity for me and one that I relish," he told the club's official website.

"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."

His first game in charge will be on Saturday when Derby travel to face Cardiff, with academy director David Lowe at the helm for Wednesday night's Carling Cup semi-final first leg against Manchester United.