Thursday 15 January 2015 15:23, UK
Derby have signed Leeds captain Stephen Warnock for an undisclosed fee on an initial 18-month contract, with the option of a further year.
Full-back Warnock played 67 times for United, 22 of those games coming this season, with his last appearance the 2-0 defeat to Derby at the iPro Stadium on December 30.
The 33-year-old, who has played twice for England, will bolster manager Steve McClaren’s defensive options as he looks to guide them back into the Premier League.
“We’re very pleased to welcome Stephen Warnock to Derby County,” McClaren told the club's official website.
“He is a solid and experienced defender who certainly strengthens our defensive options for the remaining months of the season.
“The next few months are going to be extremely important for us and it is vital to have a strong squad to call upon.
“As well as being a very good player he has excellent leadership qualities.”
Warnock is delighted to be playing under McLaren and spoke highly of atmosphere within the club.
“I’m really excited,” Warnock said. “I have enjoyed it so far. You get a nice buzz when you walk into the place. There is a great atmosphere.
“When I spoke to Steve McLaren as few days ago, that was one of the things he talked a lot about – the atmosphere he has tried to create here and how good it is.
“You can feel it when you walk into the place. There is a great buzz and hopefully I can integrate into it comfortably which I seem to have already and I’m really looking forward to it.”
Warnock began his career at Liverpool and also had permanent spells with Blackburn and Aston Villa before moving to Elland Road in 2013.
McClaren also confirmed he remains keen on defender Raul Albentosa, who plays for La Liga side Eibar.
A few legal issues must be resolved, though, before the centre-back can become a County player.
Meanwhile, midfielder John Eustace requires an operation on a meniscus ligament injury that will keep him out for an indefinite period.
See how Derby get on against local rivals Nottingham Forest in the Sky Bet Championship on Saturday. Coverage begins on Sky Sports 1 HD at midday.
