Tuesday 18 June 2019 17:39, UK
Sky Sports News understands a number of candidates have contacted Derby County enquiring about succeeding Frank Lampard as manager - but have been told there isn't a vacancy at Pride Park.
Derby are braced for an approach from Chelsea for Lampard with the Rams set to demand £4m in compensation if the Blues are to bring in their former midfielder to take over from Maurizio Sarri. However, there has been no formal contact with Derby so far.
Derby have categorically refused to engage in any sort of discussion with the would-be managers or their representatives, so as not to undermine their current relationship with Lampard, with whom they still hope to negotiate an improved and extended contract.
On Tuesday, Rangers responded to claims that Derby had made moves to lure Steven Gerrard to the club as Lampard's replacement.
A Rangers spokesman said: "Let's get one or two things clear. Our manager has not been approached and he remains one hundred percent committed to the job he has here."
Derby owner Mel Morris insisted on Monday that they want Lampard to stay for the long term, and they are building their plans around him.
The 40-year-old is currently away on holiday, but is in regular contact with his representatives over developments at Pride Park.
