Sources: Derby County make preliminary contact with Steve Cooper

Derby County have made preliminary contact with Steve Cooper about replacing John Eustace as manager, though Cooper is uncertain after his Leicester spell.

Derby County have opened preliminary talks with Steve Cooper about becoming their next manager, sources told Football Insider. The Rams' current boss John Eustace is expected to depart in the coming weeks with the club sitting 23rd in the Championship after 14 games, with upcoming fixtures against Bolton and Southampton potentially his final matches in charge.

Cooper, 46, is the leading contender but is not entirely convinced about the role following his difficult spell at Leicester City, where he won just 27 per cent of his games and struggled to win over fans due to his strong links with Nottingham Forest — a significant concern given the intense rivalry between Forest and Derby. The Welshman has been out of work since May when he was sacked by Danish side Brondby.

Cooper is favourite at 2/1 odds, ahead of Rob Edwards (5/1) and Steven Gerrard (6/1). Edwards is also being discussed by Wolves' hierarchy amid doubts over Cesar Peixoto's position.