Ex-Newcastle United boss Steve McClaren back in football as Bin Zayed Group hand him key role

Former England boss McClaren, 59, who has had two spells as Derby manager, has returned to Pride Park following an agreement between owner Mel Morris and Derventio Holdings, who are set to complete a takeover of the club.

Earlier this month, Derby confirmed a deal had been agreed “in principle” for the sale of the club to Derventio Holdings, which is owned by Sheikh Khaled Bin Zayed Al Nehayan, a member of the Abu Dhabi Royal Family.

Sheikh Khaled bin Zayed Al Nehayan was behind a high-profile £350million bid for Newcastle United last year before talks broke down.

The group then set their sights elsewhere with a deal agreed for Derby County.

A statement on Derby’s official website read: “Steve McClaren has agreed a contract to act as an advisor to the board with immediate effect.

“In this capacity he will assume the role and duties of both advisor and technical director, a position which has been identified by agreement between Mel Morris and Derventio Holdings as important to the future of the club.

“The permanent status of the technical director role will be subject to ratification by Derventio Holdings’ board following completion of the club acquisition.”

Derby chief executive Stephen Pearce added: “We are delighted to have Steve’s help and support at this critical time.

“His knowledge, experience, and academic qualifications will be invaluable to us. I am sure he will make a huge contribution.”