Former Town manager George Burley has taken over at Derby County during John Gregory's period of suspension. Gregory is the subject of an inquiry which has also seen coach Ross MacLaren and physiotherapist Stuart Walker suspended.

Burley, sacked by Town in October, says he is pleased to be back in work: "I am delighted to be involved with Derby County. Derby is rich in football history and it is an honour to be asked to be part of the club. I am looking forward to the challenges ahead.”

Derby chairman Lionel Pickering welcomed Burley to the Rams: "George is highly respected for his abilities as a football manager and his integrity as an individual and is exactly the type of person Derby needs at this juncture."

Coach Billy McEwan has been reinstated after an appeal regarding his recent sacking.

Burley is one of Town's creditors after the Blues stopped paying him at the end of December. The former Scotland international's contract was due to run until 2006.

Town face Derby in their final game of the season at Pride Park, a match which could prove crucial for both clubs.

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