Ince appointed as Blackburn Guv'nor

Paul Ince has agreed a three-year deal to succeed Mark Hughes as Blackburn manager, it has been announced.

The MK Dons boss, who lead the Milton Keynes team them to the  League Two title and the Johnstone's Paint Trophy had been the bookies favourite to take the helm at Ewood Park.

Ince's appointment makes him the first black Briton to take charge of a top-flight club in England.

The former Man Utd and Liverpool midfielder has been the long-term subject of interest from Premier League sides. He was rumoured to be in the frame for the Derby post after the sacking of Billy Davies.

As recently as last week Ince seemed to suggest that he could be on the move when he told radio reporters he was 'flattered to be linked with Blackburn". He said there was nothing concrete in the speculation, but said he'd have a better idea of what was happening in the next few days.

Ince has also been given special dispensation to gain his UEFA Pro Licence qualifications. Gareth  Southgate at Middlesborough and Glenn Roeder at Newcastle enjoyed similar bending of the rules.

MK Dons chief Pete Winkleman has always reiterated his desire to keep Ince at the club, though he realised that the man who guided them to the league title in his first full season would be courted by admirers