Burley takes reins at Derby

Derby County have turned to George Burley as the replacement for their suspended manager, John Gregory.

Burley has been installed as the interim manager at Pride Park while the club conducts an investigation into what are described as "serious allegations" made against Gregory, who was suspended 10 days ago.

The former Ipswich Town manager will be joined by Billy McEwan, who has been reinstated as first-team coach following a successful appeal against his sacking under Gregory, a dismissal the club described as "unmerited".

The Rams have also confirmed that the coach, Ross MacLaren, and the physiotherapist, Stuart Walker, have been suspended while an internal investigation takes place after allegations were made against them.

Burley, who returns to management after being dismissed by Ipswich in October, said: "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."

Burley was at Portman Road for almost eight years during which time he took Ipswich to the Premiership and helped them reach the Uefa Cup with a fifth-place finish in 2001. However, they were relegated at the end of the following campaign and he was replaced by Joe Royle earlier this season.

Ipswich and Coventry City are competing for the signature of Portugal's Under-21 centre-half Bruno Alves for next season on a year-long loan. Alves played against England Under-21 last week but has little chance of getting a game at Porto. However, his club will let him go for a season to gain experience.

Blackburn's reserve goalkeeper, Alan Kelly, has agreed a one-year extension to his contract at Ewood Park. The former Republic of Ireland international has made only three appearances for the club this season in his role as understudy to the American Brad Friedel.

Manchester City will return to their famous sky blue shirts next season after agreeing a new four-year kit sponsorship deal with Reebok. The deal is believed to be worth £5m and will also see the launch of a traditional red and black-striped away kit.