Derby County chief executive Sam Rush has insisted that the club will 'take their time' over appointing a successor to Steve McClaren at the iPro Stadium.

McClaren parted company with the Rams earlier this week after a poor spell of form towards the end of the season saw the automatic promotion contenders miss out on the Championship playoffs altogether.

Rush hinted that the board have a few names in mind already to replace the former England manager, as well as revealing that a number of individuals have applied for the job.

"We have been working with Steve in the past few days regarding his departure. We will work very quickly to draw up a shortlist, which is one I don't expect to be particularly long," he told the club's official website.

"We have already had contact from a number of individuals that believe they can take Derby County forward. We will whittle the shortlist down as quickly as we can but it is important to say that we will not be rushed into a decision.

"We have taken our time in relation to Steve McClaren and we will do so with regards to a new appointment as well, but we are also aware that there is the need for a timely decision."

Real Madrid assistant manager Paul Clement has been heavily linked with the role since McClaren's departure.