Jack Robinson has joined Derby County on a contract running until January to help with a significant shortage of fit defenders. The 33-year-old, who was without a club, comes in with the team positioned 23rd in the Championship on just 6 points after 11 games, having managed only one win, three draws and seven defeats.

Head coach John Eustace sought out the veteran player following several injuries that have limited his choices. A number of players, including Sondre Langas, Matt Clarke, Derry Murkin, Eiran Cashin, Max Johnston, Craig Forsyth, Charlie Taylor, and goalkeeper Jacob Widell Zetterstrom, are all out. The team has let in 20 goals so far this campaign, part of a recent sequence featuring two draws and three losses. Their recent form reads zero wins, two draws and three defeats, including a 1-0 home loss to Stoke City on Saturday 17 October.

Robinson's role

Robinson moved after his agreement with Birmingham City ended prior to this season. He anticipates needing a short period to regain full condition. "I've always been naturally fit anyway, so I probably just need a week's fitness and then obviously I can start getting involved more," Robinson stated. This schedule makes it doubtful he will play in the upcoming match away at his old side Sheffield United on Saturday 24 October, a team currently sitting 11th in the table.

He is instead looking to be ready following the international pause, with a possible first game coming against Millwall. Robinson previously played more than 160 times for Sheffield United, contributing to their rise to a higher division in 2023.

The challenge ahead

Derby's requirement for new players is urgent. They have secured just a single victory in the league and have scored only 9 goals, the fewest alongside another team. Their upcoming match is a difficult away game, which Robinson is expected to observe while improving his match sharpness. The player said he was pleased to assist the squad and coach until January during this challenging time, with the Rams currently 17 points behind leaders Swansea.

His final campaign with Birmingham was unsettled, including two dismissals early on. He now hopes to add solidity to a Derby defense that has been vulnerable. The team's schedule indicates an important series of matches as they try to move up from the relegation places. His temporary agreement will conclude in January.

Background and full detail: thestar.co.uk