Derby cut short Best’s loan spell

Republic of Ireland international Leon Best has returned to Blackburn Rovers after his season-long loan to Derby was cut short by the Rams.

After making just three starts — all in cup competitions — head coach Steve McClaren has decided to activate a clause to send him back to Ewood Park.

McClaren, who last week signed Darren Bent on loan for the rest of the season, said: “Leon has given his all, worked incredibly hard, been a great professional and not been a single bit of trouble, but given his chances were going to be limited moving forwards we have decided to cancel his loan agreement.”