Nigel Clough shown the door by Derby County after loss to Nottingham Forest

Clough as manager of Derby County(Originally pictured by The Telegraph)

Derby County have axed manager Nigel Clough after they we’re beaten a 1-0 by arch rivals Nottingham Forest. BBC Sport reports.

Clough has managed Derby County, who now sit at fourteenth place in the Sky Bet Championship, since 2009.

“After much consideration, the board feel it is time to move Derby County forward to the next level,” read a club statement.

Derby succumbed to their third loss in eight days following the game against Forest.

“The search is well under way to identifying and appointing a successor, and further announcements will be made in due course,” the statement continued.

“The ownership group remain steadfastly committed to the club and maintain their desire to compete at the top end of the Championship this season.”

The 47-year-old is the fourth manager to be given the boot this season by Derby, a team which was once managed by Clough’s father Brian.

The former England international holds the distinction of being the fourth longest serving manager in English football, behind Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger, Exeter City’s Paul Tisdale and Oxford United’s Chris Wilder. Clough is also the Championship’s longest serving manager.

Clough had a successful playing career with stints at Nottingham Forest, Liverpool and Manchester City followed by managerial stints at Burton Albion and Derby County.