Paul Jewell becomes new Derby County boss.

Derby have landed the prize fish in the managerial sea.

At last an appointment Derby County fans will be happy about. Gritty realists that they are, Derbeians will know that the task of keeping the club in the Premier League is more-or-less impossible, whatever the noises from management. But the ineptitude shown by the Davies administration will be a thing of the past, and Derby fans will hope that Jewell, given the right backing from the top, will be the new Brian Clough.

It is true he performed miracles at Bradford and Wigan, though there is his failure at Sheffield Wednesday that will unavoidably temper enthusiasm for the new man.

On his appointment Mr Jewell said,
"It's going to be very difficult, but I'm not here to wave the white flag. We're not adrift. I've taken time out of football to reflect on how I can get better. That time has not just been spent playing golf, I've done a lot of travelling and watched a lot of football.
We're in a struggling situation but all is not lost and I'm here for the long term to try and get the club strong and upward and in the right direction.
Every challenge is a big challenge, be it Bradford, Sheffield Wednesday or Wigan but this one really excites me. There is a lot of history in this football club but the history doesn't count for a lot these days. I think we can move the club forward.
The chairman called me yesterday, it was the first time I've spoken to him ever, despite what people might think.
People always ask about money but we want to move forward, there will be money available if and when we want to strengthen.
People talk about the January window but you have to be careful about who you bring in. I've watched a lot of matches and there's players I'd like to bring in if and when it is possible.
Let January look after itself, we're looking now to Sunderland."