Championship strugglers Derby County have recruited former Sunderland central defender Russell Anderson. The 31 year old joins on a free transfer after having had his contract cancelled at the Stadium of Light by mutual agreement.

Rams boss Nigel Clough: "Russell is an excellent defender who brings with him a wealth of experience and knowledge. He is the type of character we are looking to add to the squad; he wants to play football and is prepared to work hard.

"It might take Russell a couple of weeks to get up to full speed, but we need a fresh face in central defence and we believe Russell has the qualities and courage to step up to the mark if we ask him to."