Carroll set to stay at Pride Park

Carroll set to stay at Pride Park

Roy Carroll has agreed a three-year deal in principle with the Rams and manager Paul Jewell sees the experienced goalkeeper as a key figure in his rebuilding plans at Pride Park.

He has made two league appearances for the Rams making crucial saves and has organised the defence along with Alan Stubbs, the pair providing great experience.

Carroll left Rangers last month after enduring a frustrating time north of the border and signed a short-term contract with Derby until the end of the season, but the 30-year-old Northern Ireland international has impressed Jewell.

'We've agreed a three-year deal in principle and that's really pleasing for us and for him,' said Jewell.

'It's important to not just have experience in goal but quality and Roy has shown that in his two games.

'He has made crucial saves but he also does the simple things well and gives the players confidence.'

'Roy has got something to prove because the last 18 months have been tough for him,' said Jewell.

'He's 30 and that's a terrific age for a goalkeeper. Just look at David James, he's 37 and the best keeper in the country.'