Gary Rowett signs Derby County contract extension

Gary Rowett has signed a contract extension with Championship side Derby County until 2021, putting an end to speculation over a possible switch to Stoke City.

The 43-year-old emerged as the bookies' favourite to succeed Mark Hughes at the bet365 Stadium following his impressive work in the East Midlands.

Derby were quick to fend off the rumoured interest from Premier League strugglers Stoke, however, having offered Rowett a new three-and-a-half-year deal which he has now officially signed.

Speaking to the club's official website, executive chairman Mel Morris said: "Gary is a hugely talented football manager who has shown what can be achieved at this great club. He is a pleasure to work with and this is acknowledged at all levels within the club.

"Supported by Gary embracing the club's objectives and with his leadership, we have been able to create a sense of unity which is key to our ongoing development and our quest for Premier League football.

"While results are of course the true measure of our success Gary has helped our squad reach new heights in terms of individual and team performance, motivation and morale. Our football operations have never been in better shape."

Rowett, who has taken charge of 38 matches since his appointment in March of last year, added: "I am thrilled to extend my contract with this great club through to 2021 and I have thoroughly enjoyed being back at Derby County.

"I would like to thank my immediate staff and back-office teams who have been a massive factor in our progress to date, and will be a critical part of our success moving forward."

Derby are currently second in the Championship table following a run of just two defeats in their last 19 league outings.