Jewell confirmed by Rams
28 Nov 2007 - 09:56:14
Paul Jewell is adamant he can keep Derby County in the Premier League after being confirmed as the new manager of the rock-bottom Rams.
The 43-year-old former Wigan Athletic manager claimed the history and traditions of the Pride Park club prompted him to return to management six months after walking away from the Latics.
Jewell, who has previously managed Bradford City and Sheffield Wednesday, had been linked with a return to the JJB Stadium earlier this month following the sacking of his replacement Chris Hutchings.
However, he is convinced he can save Derby's top-flight status despite his new club currently sitting two points adrift at the foot of the table after winning just one game all season.
New Derby chairman Adam Pearson decided to part company with former manager Billy Davies on Monday.
MK Dons boss Paul Ince had been hotly tipped to be handed the managerial reins at Pride Park.
"I'm looking forward to the challenge - and there will be a challenge - but we certainly won't lack fight," said Jewell after agreeing a three-and-a-half year contract.
"I had a few offers from other clubs which I have been flattered by but Derby is the one that excited me.
"It is a fantastic club with great facilities and I think we can move forward.
"I know we are in a struggling situation at the moment but all isn't lost. I'm here for the long-term to try and get the club moving in the right direction.
"I'm not here to make false promises, but if I don't believe we can stay up, if the players don't, if the supporters don't, then we have got no chance.
"I'm not here to raise the white flag. It's going to be difficult but we are not adrift, we have got to work together to try and get out of this."