ALAN CURBISHLEY is set to be offered an immediate return into management by Derby County, according to reports.

The 50-year-old resigned as West Ham boss on Wednesday in protest at the east London club's transfer policies.

But the News of the World understands that he is being lined up to replace under-fire Paul Jewell at Pride Park, should Jewell suffer his 29th defeat in charge of the Rams in next Saturday's clash with Sheffield United.

Jewell took over Derby in November but has yet to register a league win.