ChampionshipDerby County have appointed Nigel Pearson as manager on a three year deal.

The former Leicester City, Southampton and Hull City boss will have Chris Powell as his assistant.

"I am honoured to be named as the manager of Derby County, which is one of the biggest clubs in the country, a club in excellent shape and one with strong ambitions. It is firmly focused on achieving Premier League football, said the 52 year old.

"I will give absolutely everything I have to this role and do all I can to bring exciting, entertaining and winning football which our supporters can be proud of."

The Rams have also confirmed Darren Wassall, who had been in charge of the club since the sacking of Paul Clement, will now return to his previous role as academy director.

Chairman Mel Morris said: "We are delighted to welcome Nigel to the club. He is a proven winner, a highly experienced manager who has track record of success in the Championship and has also coached successfully in the Premier League.

"It is also great to have Chris Powell back at the football club as our assistant manager. Chris is a top quality coach and gave us excellent service as a player. He will join Kevin Phillips and Pascal Zuberbuhler in the first-team coaching set-up."