Derby boss Billy Davies says new American signing Eddie Lewis will be a positive influence on the dressing room.
"It will not be a big step for Eddie - this is somebody who has played 70-odd international games and is an experienced, quality player," said Davies.
"He is also a fantastic lad to have in the dressing room and, more importantly, he can be a big influence.
"I look at Eddie probably the same way Sir Alex Ferguson looked at Henrik Larsson and the way others managers have looked at senior, experienced players.
"Sometimes bringing in experienced players can help the whole group. Sir Alex did it with Larsson and Andy Goram a few years ago. Such players bring a calm head and can be very influential in helping the younger players."
