Former Rovers man Bradley Johnson has returned to Derby County to take up a coaching role in their Academy.

Johnson departed Ewood Park in the summer of 2022 and spent last season at MK Dons as the club was relegated from League One.

The 36-year-old – who also had spells at Leeds and Norwich among others - now returns to Pride Park, where me made 140 appearances between 2015 and 2019.

He will assist the club’s Under-21 coaching staff as a player-coach and will be eligible to feature in Premier League 2 as an overage player.

“We’re pleased to welcome Bradley back to Derby County in this new role within the Academy,” said Academy manager Matt Hale.

“As an experienced player across both the Premier League and EFL throughout his career, Bradley has significant experience that he can pass on to our Academy players - primarily the Under-21s - on a daily basis.

“This can come in many different ways - by driving standards, setting an example every single day or simply having discussions with the players both in training and match situations.

“He also has a clear understanding of what is required and expected as a player to play for Derby County at first-team level.

“He has experienced many scenarios and situations in his long career, played in big matches and been part of high-pressure moments, so to have him passing on the knowledge he has built up from a players’ perspective will be invaluable.

“To have someone who has played almost 700 senior games alongside the players on a daily basis in this role will only be beneficial to everyone.”

It is becoming an increasingly popular role in the modern game, with Tom Huddlestone and Jay Spearing taking up similar positions at Manchester United and Liverpool respectively.

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