David Clowes reacts as Derby County secure John Eustace coup | OneFootball

Derby County have officially confirmed the appointment of John Eustace as their latest manager

David Clowes has reacted to the appointment of John Eustace as Derby County manager.

The Rams have struck an agreement to bring the 45-year-old to Pride Park, with the club looking to avoid relegation from the Championship.

Eustace has departed Blackburn Rovers in order to complete the move, leaving Ewood Park after 12 months in charge.

He had the Lancashire outfit competing for a play-off position, but it has been reported by Alex Crook that a lack of support from the owners has played a major role in his decision to make the switch.

David Clowes reacts to John Eustace appointment

Clowes has issued a statement in response to Eustace’s arrival at Derby, claiming that he has the quality needed to maintain the club’s upwards trajectory.

The owner is confident in the appointment, and has suggested the ex-Blackburn boss will play a leading role in driving the Rams forward.

“I’m excited to welcome John back to Derby County,” said Clowes, via the club’s official website.

“Fans will remember him for his craft, commitment and intelligence. He was a real leader.

“I’ve followed his managerial career with interest, and it’s clear he has the qualities we need to maintain our progress.

“He helped both Queens Park Rangers and Birmingham City avoid relegation, before taking Birmingham to sixth place prior to his departure.

“He has repeated that achievement at Blackburn Rovers, leaving behind a team in the play-off places.

"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.

"This is now a season within a season and it’s time for that passion, solidarity and shared belief again, to show what the Rams mean to us all.”

Derby County league position

Derby are currently 21st in the Championship table, ahead of 22nd place Hull City due to a superior goal difference.

Eustace’s first game in charge will come on Friday evening with an away trip to QPR.

Eustace appointment is a great move for Derby

Eustace has done a great job at both Birmingham City and Blackburn Rovers, so this appointment is a real coup for Derby.

He has shown he can work with limited resources and still get results, which is exactly what the Rams need right now.

This should boost their survival chances, and supporters will feel quite optimistic about what can be achieved if they can keep their Championship status.

That he jumped ship from Blackburn to move to Derby, even if it is a former club of his, is a great sign for their long-term ambition.