Steve McClaren has revealed that he did not want to leave Derby County, after his contract with the club was terminated this evening.
The former England boss took charge of the Rams in September 2013 and guided the club to the Championship playoff final, where they were beaten by Queens Park Rangers.
For long periods this season they had looked like winning promotion to the Premier League, but a poor run of form in the final months cost them dearly and a defeat to Reading on the final day saw them miss out on the playoffs and finish a disappointing eighth in the league table.
"I'm very disappointed with the decision," McClaren said in a statement. "The club means a huge amount to me, and I was not looking to leave.
"While we were all unhappy with the way the season ended, I still believe real progress was being made.
"I do not believe or accept that rumours linking me to the Newcastle United job were a factor in the team's performances this year, as had been alleged. I wanted to remain with the club and was confident in leading the side to a successful season next year."
McClaren's reign as Derby manager ended with his team having won just two of their last 13 league games.
Alex Meyers
