Alan Irvine and Blackburn part ways

Irvine, 57, a former Rovers player and in his second spell as coach at the Sky Bet Championship club, has departed Ewood Park after seven months in his latest role.

"Blackburn Rovers wish to announce that it has been mutually agreed that assistant manager Alan Irvine will leave the club with immediate effect," the club announced on their official website.

"Irvine returned to the club in November, but has now decided to further his career away from Ewood Park. Rovers would like to thank Alan for his efforts and wish him well for the future.

"The club hope to move swiftly in appointing a successor, who will work alongside manager Owen Coyle and first-team coach Rob Kelly."

Blackburn appointed former Burnley and Bolton boss Coyle earlier this month following the departure of Paul Lambert at the end of last season.

"We wish Alan well, as he is a great football man and a lovely person," Coyle added.

Irvine, who also had spells at Everton and Crystal Palace as a player, has previously managed Preston, Sheffield Wednesday and West Brom.

Meanwhile Manchester City midfielder Jack Byrne has joined Blackburn on a season-long loan.

The 20-year-old is yet to make a senior appearance for City and spent last season on loan at Dutch top-flight side Cambuur.

"Rovers are delighted to announce the signing of highly-rated Manchester City midfielder Jack Byrne," the Sky Bet Championship club said on their official website.

"The Ireland Under-21 international, who is tipped to have a big future in the game, joins on a season-long loan from the Premier League giants."

Dublin-born Byrne was called up into Martin O'Neill's Republic of Ireland squad for friendlies against Switzerland and Slovakia in March before returning to the Under-21s without winning his first cap.

He joined City from St Kevin's Boys aged 15 and scored four goals in 27 games for Cambuur last season, becoming the youngest scorer in the Eredivisie side's history in a 4-1 win over Excelsior.

Byrne is Blackburn's fifth summer signing following the arrivals of Anthony Stokes, Stephen Hendrie, Danny Graham and Liam Feeney since Coyle was appointed manager earlier this month.