Steve McClaren has bolstered both The Rams midfield and defensive stocks with just the one signing - as versatile Stoke City player Ryan Shotton has joined the Rams on loan from Stoke.

Whispers doing the rounds suggest that if the move works out for both Derby and Shotton that the deal will become permanent after the highly regarded player does not seem to be in Mark Hughes’ plans going forward at Britannia Stadium.

There have been reports in some media that a 3 year contract is on offer at DCFC but no official confirmation has been made by the club as yet regarding that speculation.

Shotton was a product of the Stoke Academy and despite playing 48 games for The Potters in the top flight and UEFA Europa League; he has also found himself on loan at Tranmere, Barnsley & Wigan over the journey. Last season Shotton while on loan at The Lactics — Ryan impressed in his 14 appearances, scoring one goal.

At the age of 25, Shotton was in search of regular football and in statements made regarding the move; Mark Hughes agreed that Derby was a good club to try to re-invigorate his career.

Shotton is most comfortable at Right back but has been deployed as a Right Winger and with a towering 6 ft 3in frame, has even been deployed a make-shift Centre Forward having scored 15 goals in his 189 career appearances.

The comparison to former Rams hero Rory Delap has often been made because of his exceptionally long throw-ins. Considering both played together at Stoke - it seems Shotton is something of a master’s apprentice - as you can see in the video below!

Rumours linking Derby to Shotton had been circulating for some time but other clubs were in the hunt as Premier League quality players available for loan are not easy to come by. But in the case of Steve McClaren it seems Derby is fast becoming a preferred destination as the club improves both on and off the field.

McClaren seemed happy to get his man - when speaking to the official DCFC site:

”We’re very pleased to welcome Ryan Shotton to Derby County. He is someone who we’ve had our eye on for a while and he will certainly strengthen our defensive options.”

“He is big, strong and has a physical presence, as well as being a good footballer and having Premier League experience to his name.”

Shotton was equally pleased when he spoke to the official DCFC site about the move:

"It's a move has been on the cards for a few weeks. We've spoken, discussed a few things and I'm here now and ready to go. I am itching to be playing first-team football again. I can play in a number of positions but I love defending and playing football, which is what it is all about.”

"Steve McClaren believes in me and I am looking forward to joining this team and pushing forward."

Welcome to Derby Ryan - may it be a long and successful stay for both you and the club!

Photo: Action Images

Derby County Polls