It has taken only 57 days but the Championship has seen its first managerial departure after Derby County sacked Nigel Clough this evening.
The 47 year old was dismissed after the 1-0 defeat in the East Midlands derby at Nottingham Forest this lunchtime.
Clough, whose father Brian guided the Rams to the top flight title in 1972, was the fourth longest serving manager in the Football League after taking the Pride Park reigns in January 2009, guiding them to 78 wins 54 draws and 101 losses from his 233 games in charge.
A statement on the club’s official website read:
Derby County have this evening announced that they have parted company with manager Nigel Clough with immediate effect.
Clough has been in charge at the Rams since January 2009 and the club would like to place on record their thanks to him for his tireless efforts to bring stability to Derby County, and his hard work and dedication throughout his tenure.
However, after much consideration, the board feel it is time to move Derby County forward to the next level, which will necessitate a comprehensive review of the club’s football operations.
The ownership group remain steadfastly committed to the club and maintain their desire to compete at the top end of the SkyBet Championship this season.
The search is well underway to identifying and appointing a successor, and further announcements will be made in due course.
The club would also like to take this opportunity to wish Nigel Clough well for the future.