Derby County have appointed Clive Richards as their chief scout with immediate effect.

Richards has been a senior scout within the club’s scouting department for the last 18 months but now has been tasked with overall responsibility for the department.

Following Head of Football Operations Chris Evans’ departure at the end of September the club has taken the decision to restructure its scouting operation.

A key aspect of Richards’ role is to work with Head Coach Paul Clement and both his coaching and analytics staff in order to identify potential additions to the playing squad, as well as working closely with the Academy’s recruitment team.

Commenting on the appointment, President & Chief Executive Sam Rush said: “We’re pleased that Clive Richards has taken up the role of Chief Scout at Derby County.


“Clive is someone that is respected within the football industry and an individual who I have worked closely with, both prior to joining Derby and during his time at the club.


“He will be a great asset to Paul and his staff as we continue to build the club for long term success.


“He has a wealth of experience and both myself and Chairman Mel Morris are looking forward to working closely with him in his new position as well."


Richards has been involved in full-time recruitment within professional football for more than 25 years, following a spell working as a part-time scout.

He has filled positions of Chief Scout, Assistant Chief Scout, European Scout and also Head of Academy Recruitment at a number of clubs, both in the Premier League and also the Football League, prior to joining Derby in 2014.

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