AN application to erect a bronze statue at Pride Park stadium in honour of Brian Clough and Peter Taylor has been submitted.

Derby County Football Club has applied to the city council for permission to put up the 19ft monument created by sculptor Andy Edwards – who previously sculpted former Rams' hero Steve Bloomer.

The statue would depict Clough and Taylor in 1972 lifting the First Division Championship winners' trophy.

The pair started working together in 1965 when they managed Hartlepool United.

It was two years later when they joined Derby County and, during the next six years, they put together a team of home and international talent and took them from the old Second Division to win the club's first Division One title in 88 years during the 1971-72 season.

If the plans are approved, the statue will be placed at the west end of the stadium facing the main approach from the city centre, with the figures looking towards the city.

The statue will be lit up at night.

The figures will be on a circular podium which will have plaques naming sponsors who have donated towards the statue.

The artwork is expected to cost £125,000 and fans have the chance to contribute by buying £5,000 plaques with their names engraved on them. A decision on the plan is due by the end of April.