Lee leaves Newcastle for Derby

Second signing
The 36-year-old Lee will become new Derby manager John Gregory’s second signing at Pride Park, following the arrival last week of another Newcastle old boy, Warren Barton.

'Conscientious professionals'
Speaking to Derby's official website, Gregory said of his two new signings: "They're smashing lads that are great around the place and they're very conscientious professionals. Warren and Robert have come here because they want to get Derby County out of relegation trouble but they are also looking beyond that to next season."

Transfer request
Lee, who won 21 England caps between 1995 and 1999, put in a transfer request at St James' Park late last year after being told that talks over a new contract would be delayed until the end of the season.

'A big wrench'
The former Charlton Athletic FC favourite had also attracted interest from West Ham United FC. He admitted leaving Newcastle after ten years had not been easy. "It was a big wrench but I wanted to go to a club that wanted me and John Gregory has sold me this club," he said.