Lambert back in management

Paul Lambert is back in football as manager of Blackburn Rovers.

The former Celtic skipper left Aston Villa in March and becomes the fifth man to take charge at Ewood Park since they were relegated from the Premier League at the end of the 2011/12 season.

Fulham and QPR were also reported to be keen on Lambert but after nine months out of football he takes charge of the club currently sitting in 16th place in the table, four points clear of the relegation zone and eleven away from a play-off place.

“I would like to thank the Owners and Board of Directors for giving me the opportunity to manage such a fantastic club,” he told the club website.

“Blackburn Rovers is a club with superb support and fine traditions, being a founding member of both the Football League and the Premier League.

“After a short period out of the game, I feel refreshed and I am really looking forward to the challenge ahead.

“I bring with me a very trusted backroom team that I believe is equipped to help me create an exciting era for the club and I hope to deliver a brand of football that will both entertain the supporters and bring success.”

So far this season eight Championship manager’s have been sacked with Lambert’s first match a local derby at Preston on Saturday. Alan Irvine will be Lambert’s assistant.

On December 28 Blackburn travel to face Bolton where he could come face to face with his old Celtic team-mate Neil Lennon.