Derby splash out on Earnshaw

Newly-promoted Derby County have made their first major signing of the summer, buying Robert Earnshaw from Norwich for a club record £3.5 million.

The Welsh international has Premiership experience, having played for West Bromwich Albion between 2004 and January 2006, when he was sold to Norwich.

Despite being considered a failure at top-flight level for the Baggies, Earnshaw has a good goals-per-minute ratio, and subsequently boosted his reputation with 27 goals in 45 outings for the Canaries.

Derby manager Billy Davies said: "We are delighted to have a new striker on board with a fantastic track record in terms of goals scored at every level he has played, including the Premier League and international.

Earnie had a strange time with WBA. He was their super sub, and seemed to deliver goals when given the chance. But he was never given a regular run of games, and if I remember correctly, he wasn't shy about pointing that out. Maybe he make the step up this time around.