The Rams have added to their ever expanding squad by today confirming the signing of former Burton Albion player of the year and number one keeper Adam Legzdins for an undisclosed fee on a three year deal.
At 24 years of age, Legzdins was considered a future prospect by not just Derby but by many clubs at Championship level who were also reportedly interested in obtaining his signature.
One of the highlights for the Brewers last season was the consistent performances of their keeper who played in every game for the club last season in their less than impressive League 2 campaign. Legzdins managed to keep 11 clean sheets in those 46 games.
Former Burton boss Nigel Clough was pleased to bring in some quality back up and perhaps competition for his new number one keeper Frank Fielding:
"We highlighted the importance of having a good number two to back Frank up some time ago and we feel that Adam fits the bill for us.”
“We want Ross Atkins to go out on loan again this season and get some experience and Saul Deeney won't be back from his shoulder injury until later in the year, so bringing another goalkeeper in has been a priority.”
"Adam is at a good age as well and we feel he is a goalkeeper who will improve all the time and challenge Frank for his place."
Having spent time with Birmingham City as a trainee, Legzdins was a regular loan signing having had stints with Alfreton Town, Halifax Town, Macclesfield Town and Oldham Athletic.
After leaving Birmingham he signed for Crewe Alexandra and after 2 years moved to Burton last season where he was finally given a chance to show what he can do.
Legzdins was thrilled to sign for the Rams and is determined to push Fielding all the way and never settle for second best:
"I am thrilled to get the opportunity to come to Derby County and test myself at this level, this is a great opportunity for me to improve myself and further my career.”
"It was obviously a tough call to leave Burton and the many friends I have made there in the last year behind, but I would be foolish not to take up the challenge at this stage of my career.”
"I will always be grateful to Burton for what they have done for my career, but to come to Derby County was a move I really couldn't turn down. The facilities here are second to none and I hope to make the most of them and learn off Nigel Clough and his staff to become an even better goalkeeper."
"I don't think I can look as if I am coming here as a number two, although I accept I am coming here perhaps a little bit behind Frank. But I am not arriving with the mindset I will be on the bench every week, I am confident in my own ability and I have push myself to get past Frank”.
"Frank is a fantastic goalkeeper who has done really well at Derby and has already been in the England squad, so I am really looking forward to working with him and learning from Martin Taylor and our other goalkeepers.”
"At the same time, I don't want to accept I will be a number two and I hope I can improve as a goalkeeper working with the staff here. If I can do that, and build on last year at Burton, I don't see any reason why I can't eventually be in the team."
This latest signing must surely underline the fact that Stephen Bywater’s time is nearly up at the club. It will be interesting to see if and when the Rams move him on how and to whom he will depart.
RamZone would like to welcome Adam to DCFC and wish him all the best between the sticks for the Rams if he gets the opportunity during the season.
As always RamZone will present a comprehensive player profile and further reaction to the signing in the coming days.