Derby County chairman John Sleightholme has urged resigning boss George Burley to make clear his real reasons for leaving the Rams. The former Town manager released a statement earlier today announcing his intention to leave the club, citing "an ongoing issue" which he felt could not be resolved.

Sleightholme said: "It is with reluctance and regret that we note George Burley's decision not to continue as manager.

"He has managed the team with the result of great on-field progress for which he deserves credit.

"George raised a specific concern with the board, the board had a meeting and complied with George's request and he agreed to continue as manager.

"However, since that meeting only a number of days ago, George now feels he cannot continue as manager.

"We asked if there was anything we could do to change his mind and he said there was no solution possible.

"George and his representatives have made it clear that his decision his final.

"I would like to take this opportunity on behalf of the board to thank George for his considerable contribution to Derby County.

"The board, having satisfied George's requests, are disappointed that he has not made clear his real reasons for leaving."

Burley has already been linked with the vacant manager's jobs at Millwall and Hearts.

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