Anderson gets Rams deal

Last updated : 22 April 2010 By Tony Scholes
Russell Anderson
Anderson suffered a cruciate ligament injury in our Carling Cup game against Fulham in September 2008 and that ruled him out for the season after just a few weeks into his season long loan deal at Turf Moor.

He was with the squad at Wembley last May but returned to Sunderland in the summer where he suffered another knee injury that kept him out of the first half of this season. In January he had his contract terminated at the Stadium of Light and a couple of days later signed a deal with Derby until the end of the season.

He didn't get into the first team immediately, in fact had to wait two months to win a place. But since he got into the team he's played eight games in the centre of defence and his form has been good enough to attract interest from other Championship clubs.

That's led to Rams' boss Nigel Clough moving quickly and leading to Anderson yesterday signing his new deal with them.

Clough said: "This is the perfect start to what is going to be an important summer of recruitment. Russell has proved his quality at this level and will have a big part to play in our squad for the new season and beyond.

"He is the exact type of character we are looking for; a strong personality who is determined and committed. We have had to act quickly to beat off competition from other Championship sides, but we were always confident of securing his future."

Anderson said on completing the deal: "I'm delighted to get my future secure here at Derby County for two more years. I've really enjoyed my time with Derby; it's a great club with fantastic support and I can't wait for next season already.

"The gaffer and the club gave me a chance to play first team football again and I am determined to repay them with my performances on the pitch."

Anderson made just five appearances for Burnley having made his debut in the 0-0 home draw against Plymouth Argyle, another former loan club, in August last year.