Birch leaves Rams

Derby tonight announced that chief executive Trevor Birch has left the club with immediate effect.

Birch, who was only appointed in June, was recently reported to have suffered a breakdown in his relationship with manager Billy Davies, but the Rams boss denied there was any problem between them.

The club released a statement tonight, which read: “Derby County Football Club today announced that Trevor Birch has ceased to be employed as its chief executive officer with immediate effect.

“Please note there will be no further comment from the club.”