Rafael Benitez appeared on BBC Five Live last night and discussed the prospects of him becoming the new manager of Derby County.

The Rams are searching for a new manager following the sacking of Phillip Cocu under a fortnight ago, following a dismal start to the season.

With Dubai-based royal Sheikh Khaled bin Zayed Al Nehayan set to take over at Pride Park, the new owners will decide who takes charge of the club going forward.

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Rafa Benitez has been installed as the new favourite to become Derby boss, amid speculation on social media linking him with the vacant role.

The Spaniard is likely to be a popular choice amongst fans, having managed some of the biggest clubs in world football and guiding Newcastle to promotion from the Championship in 2016/17.

Speaking on BBC Five Live, though, Benitez discussed the links with the vacant role at Pride Park, saying: "No, not really.

"I think it's a big club and I have a lot of respect for them. But at the moment I am quite focused on trying to pass my quarantine here and enjoy it a little bit in England and then prepare for the next season.

"But you never know because football is changing and life is changing too much, but at the moment no."

Derby travel to Bristol City this weekend, with Liam Rosenior and Wayne Rooney taking charge of the Rams.

The Verdict

It was always going to be a bit of a coup to lure Benitez to Derby County.

With the new owners being particularly wealthy and rich, they are likely to want to bring in a new man who can help push them towards promotion whatever the cost.

Benitez is a big name, but would he be willing to take the step down to the Championship right now? It doesn't seem likely.