Carroll to extend Derby stay

Roy Carroll has agreed a three-year deal in principle with Derby after impressing manager Paul Jewell during his three weeks with the Rams.

Carroll initially signed a short-term contract with the Barclays Premier League's bottom club at the end of last month after leaving Rangers.

Although Derby are destined for an immediate return to the Coca-Cola Championship, Northern Ireland international Carroll has had no hesitation in deciding to extend his stay beyond this season.

"We've agreed a three-year deal in principle with Roy, so that is something really pleasing for us and him," confirmed Jewell.

"It's important to not just have experience in goal, but quality, and he has shown that in his two games with us.

"He has made crucial saves at vital times, but he has also managed to do the simple things well, and that gives confidence to the players.

"Roy looks the part because he as played at the top level. Nothing fazes him, and the beauty is he has a lot to prove to himself because the last 18 months have been tough for him.

"He knows he needs to knuckle down, keep working hard, and at the age of 30, which is a terrific age for a goalkeeper, he's a lot of time ahead of him.

"You look at David James who is 37, yet he is the best in the country, so there is a lot to come from Roy."