McCarthy: Derby’s uncertainty won’t change our approach

Ipswich Town boss Mick McCarthy says the uncertainty surrounding Derby County has not had a bearing on his side’s preparations for tomorrow night’s game at Pride Park.

Having spent four-and-a-half years slowly building some solid foundations, manager Nigel Clough was controversially sacked hours after a narrow 1-0 defeat at local rivals Nottingham Forest on Saturday.

Former England boss Steve McClaren has arrived at Pride Park for talks today, but its understood that it will be academy boss Darren Wassell in caretaker charge tomorrow night.

“I’ve no idea, I haven’t got a clue,” admitted McCarthy, when asked how the changes might affect Derby. “I see the rest of the coaching staff are all doing their gardens, they’re on gardening leave.

“Steve McClaren, if he takes over, will he be in charge or will he sit above and watch it? Is it a bit too soon to have any influence? Probably. I don’t know if he’s got the job yet.

“And if it’s someone from the reserves or youth team, which has been suggested, you never know.

“Some people try and change it and do something and get a result and it’s always there on their CV. I haven’t got a clue, but it won’t change us because we’ll be doing exactly the same.”

Derby are just two points behind Ipswich in the table, having recorded impressive away wins against Brighton (2-1), Millwall (3-0) and Yeovil (5-1). Three successive home defeats – against Leicester (1-0), Burnley (3-0) and Reading (3-1) – had seen the pressure rise though.

McCarthy – who only took charge at Portman Road on November 1st last year – is already the Championship’s 11th long-serving boss. For his thoughts on this, plus a full match preview, see tomorrow’s EADT and Ipswich Star.