Derby look to Burley to win relegation battle

English First Division strugglers Derby County appointed George Burley as interim manager in place of suspended manager John Gregory.

Gregory's assistant Ross McLaren and physio Stuart Walker have also now been suspended by Derby pending the outcome of an inquiry into what it has described as "serious allegations".

Former coach Billy McEwan, who was sacked by Gregory, has returned to the club after winning an appeal against his dismissal.

Burley, who has also managed Ayr and Colchester, was sacked by Ipswich last October.

He steered Ipswich to the Premiership and the UEFA Cup only to take them back down to the First Division again.

"I am delighted to be involved with Derby County," Burley told the Rams' website.

"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 challenge ahead."

Derby chairman Lionel Pickering added: "George is highly respected for his ability as a football manager and his integrity as an individual and is exactly the type of person Derby County needs at this juncture."

Gregory was appointed at Pride Park in January 2002 shortly after his dismissal at Midlands club Aston Villa.

The former QPR and England midfielder was earlier this week given a five-match touchline ban and fined 7,500 pounds (11,726 dollars) for abusing an official

Derby, relegated from the Premniership last year, have slumped to fifth from bottom of the First Division.