Steve McClaren is in line for a sensational return to Derby County this week, with sources close to the club reporting that the former England manager has been approached to take over following the departure of Nigel Pearson.

McClaren was dismissed by the Rams at the end of the 2014-15 season, when their promotion push was scuppered after picking up only two wins in their final 13 games.

At the time, the 55-year-old was being linked with a move to Newcastle United and many fans felt that this was what was behind their fading challenge toward the end of the season.

The club's chairman Mel Morris looks to have put that falling out behind them and both the club and McClaren are close to agreeing terms.

The move will constitute McClaren's fourth spell at the club; having spent time there as a player in 1985, before taking the assistant boss role in 2003.

Derby County parted company with Pearson last week on the back of the former Leicester City manager's disagreement with the board. In his absence, assistant boss Chris Powell was installed as interim boss and it appears he will retain his position within the backroom staff. 

Derby are currently 20th in the Championship and face Leeds at home on Saturday.