Robert relishes chance with Rams in ‘best league in world’

NEW Derby signing Laurent Robert has insisted he never had any doubts about returning to ‘the best league in the world’.

The controversial French winger yesterday agreed to join Paul Jewell’s Pride Park revolution and could make his Rams bow against Wigan on Saturday if international clearance is gained in time.

On a busy day of transfer activity at the Barclays Premier League’s bottom club, Argentinian striker Emanuel Villa — who also holds Spanish nationality — has been cleared to play for the Rams, while midfielders Robbie Savage and Hossam Ghaly are on the verge of joining the influx.

Manager Jewell has also claimed to be close to bringing in a goalkeeper after injuries to Stephen Bywater and Lewis Price, as he seeks to close what is currently a 10-point gap to top-flight safety.

And despite Derby’s perilous situation — they still have just one league win to their name — Robert claims he had no qualms about joining their fight for survival after agreeing a deal to the end of the season.

“The Derby manager called my agent to say he wanted me and I came quickly because the quality and the atmosphere in the Premier League is the best in the world,” the 32-year-old said.

“The club’s position here is a bit difficult but I’m here to put my experience in and work hard, for the rest of the season.’’

While Robert will bring creativity, Jewell has also shown his determination to add bite by bringing in the experienced and combative Savage from Blackburn.

A fee has been agreed between the clubs and Savage was at Pride Park yesterday to discuss terms, with a deal likely to be concluded today.

Savage, who had also been linked with Sunderland, lost his place at Rovers after undergoing knee surgery earlier this season and has been unable to regain a regular starting place.

Ghaly has been out of favour at Tottenham since throwing his shirt to the ground when substituted by then manager Martin Jol in the final game of last season.

The 26-year-old Egypt midfielder has pulled out of the African Nations Cup in an attempt to secure a move to the Rams, but any deal will be subject to a work permit.

Jewell said: “Hossam is coming in this afternoon. We’re not sure about his work permit situation but, all being well, he will be a Derby County player.”

On a positive day for the Rams, clearance for Villa to make his debut was also obtained.

The 25-year-old completed his £2million (€2.6m) move to Pride Park from Mexican side UAG Tecos last week.

Villa was paraded to the crowd before Sunday’s FA Cup tie against Sheffield Wednesday and Jewell is now looking forward to seeing him in action.

“I can’t wait to see Tito in a Derby shirt because he looks good in training,” Jewell said.