Cocu replaces Lampard at Derby County

Phillip Cocu has been appointed as Frank Lampard's successor at Derby County, the Championship club have confirmed.

Lampard was officially unveiled as Chelsea's new manager on Thursday, following an impressive debut season in management with Derby last term.

The Rams made it to the play-off final but went down 2-1 to Aston Villa in May's showpiece at Wembley.

And Derby have now announced Lampard's replacement, with former PSV and Fenerbahce coach Cocu handed a four-year contract at Pride Park.

It's time. pic.twitter.com/0TbJPux9a8

— Derby County (@dcfcofficial) July 5, 2019

"We are delighted to welcome Phillip as our new manager," Derby executive chairman Mel Morris told the club's official website.

"We are continuing to develop our philosophy at Derby County and from the first conversation with Phillip, and his team, it was very clear they share similar views.

"The fit is strong. We want to build on the momentum that we have in our style of play, our club values, and the increasingly important role of our academy.

"Phillip and his team understand the need and benefits of this approach. We had very specific criteria for identifying a new manager."

72.4% - Phillip Cocu won 72.4 percent of his matches as manager in the Eredivisie, the second-highest for a manager with at least 100 games, after Guus Hiddink (72.8%). Rammed.

— OptaJohan (@OptaJohan) July 5, 2019

After a glittering playing career, Cocu took up his first head coach role at PSV in 2013 and led the club to three Eredivisie titles before leaving for Turkey in 2018.

Cocu's spell at Fenerbahce did not go to plan, however, and the Dutchman was dismissed in October 2018 after winning four of his 16 games in charge.

One outgoing at Derby was also confirmed on Friday, with Bradley Johnson leaving to join fellow Championship side Blackburn Rovers on a two-year deal.

#Rovers are delighted to announce the signing of experienced Championship midfielder Bradley Johnson from @dcfcofficial on a two-year deal. pic.twitter.com/3hby1HnHrz

— Blackburn Rovers (@Rovers) July 5, 2019