Derby County skipper Richard Keogh has lavished praise on the club's new signing, according to The Derby Telegraph.

Joe Ledley joined Derby County on a short term deal until January last week and Richard Keogh believes that he will prove to be a "great signing".

After missing the deadline to snap up defensive midfielder Maikel Kieftenbeld from Birmingham City, Derby were in the market for a new player in that position and scoured the free agent market for one.

This was made even more pressing after the Rams offloaded Jacob Butterfield (to Sheffield Wednesday) and Craig Bryson (to Cardiff City).

Joe Ledley, who most recently was playing in the Premier League with Crystal Palace, has provided Gary Rowett's team with a short term solution in that department.

Discussing Ledley's arrival, Derby County skipper Richard Keogh said:

“He’s a very good player.

"I’ve played against him a few times.

“He’s had great experience with Wales, in the Premier League and playing in Europe.

“I think he’s a great signing and having come across him before, he’s a great lad, too.

“So he should be a good addition on and off the pitch.

“I’m looking forward to playing with him and I’m sure he will add something to our squad.”

The 30-year-old has played for Cardiff City, Celtic and Crystal Palace in his career, amassing over 500 appearances to date.

The Verdict

Joe Ledley has vital experience and to snap him up as a free agent is shrewd business by Derby County.

The central midfielder is filling a position where Derby were arguably light and a short term deal works well because it is low risk.

If the Wales international can prove his fitness and ability, then he will surely earn a longer deal at Pride Park.

Derby fans - What do you make of Ledley's arrival? Let us know below...