Former Sheffield Wednesday skipper Nigel Pearson takes over as Derby County boss

Pearson, who was recently interviewed for the vacant managerial post at Aston Villa, has signed a three-year contract at the iPro Stadium.

The 52-year-old former Leicester boss, who captained Sheffield Wednesday as a player in the early 90s, is the permanent successor to Paul Clement following his sacking in February, which led to academy manager Darren Wassall being promoted to head coach for the remainder of the season.

Pearson will be joined on the coaching staff by former Derby defender Chris Powell, who will take up the position of assistant manager, while Wassall will return to his role with the club's academy.

Following his appointment, Pearson told the club's official website, dcfc.co.uk: ''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.

''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.''