New Derby County goalkeeper Roy Carroll is delighted to be playing first team football again.

Carroll made his debut for Derby last weekend in the 1-1 draw with Birmingham after completing his protracted move from Rangers.

The former Manchester United custodian made the move to Pride Park after growing frustrated with his lack of first team opportunities at Rangers.

"I haven't played for a long time," Carroll told Sky Sports News. "I played one game for Rangers up there in the Scottish Cup.

"I have not played for over a year really. I played reserves, played behind closed doors, but it is a big difference playing first-team football and that is what I am looking forward to doing until the end of the season and see what happens from there.

"It is good to be back in the Premiership and that where everybody wants to play."

Derby are facing relegation after a disastrous season, but Carroll has called on them to go down fighting.

He added: "Once you get a good result it gives you a lift and as professional players you want to play for the supporters, yourself and your family and go out and try your best.

"Whatever happens at the end of the season happens. If you are relegated you need to go out there with your head held high that's what you need to do."