Hutchings will replace Stan Ternent, who was named as the new manager of Huddersfield Town on Thursday, as Paul Jewell's number two at Pride Park.

The 50-year-old has previously worked under Jewell at Bradford City and Wigan Athletic, succeeding the Liverpudlian on both occasions as manager.

Speaking about the appointment on the club's official website, Jewell said: "Chris is a football man through and through and he lives to be on the training ground. He understands footballers and what makes them tick, he's a people person, and tactically there are few better than him.

"We have struck up a great understanding over the years and I'm delighted he has agreed to come on board.

"Our main task now is to put together a squad capable and in the right frame of mind to launch a promotion campaign next season for Derby County."

Hutchings said: "When Paul got back in touch, I was delighted to join up with him again. Football is a game based on trust and when you build up relationships over time, these can be invaluable.

"I can see that the potential at this club is incredible.

"There is an ambitious chairman backed by totally committed new owners, a manager with a proven track record, a great stadium filled every week by a magnificent support base and most importantly, there is a core of good players here, whose confidence has been badly shaken but who I'm certain can regroup in the summer and start fulfilling their potential.

"The ingredients are all here and I'm looking forward to getting back to work."

www.dcfc.premiumtv.co.uk