Derby say, "Ruben impressed us enormously in training."

Maybe, just maybe that's why The Rams have gone down:)

Derby County have agreed terms for the signing of versatile Australian Ruben Zadkovich on a two-year contract.

The 21-year-old has impressed during a trial spell at Moor Farm and is boss Paul Jewell's first signing as he prepares for life in the Coca-Cola Championship next season.

He is not eligible to play for the Rams until 2008/09 as he left Sydney FC to become a free agent at the end of his contract there in March - outside of the confines of the transfer window.

Jewell said: "Ruben impressed us enormously in training. A number of clubs have been interested in him and we wanted to make sure we didn't miss out on a fantastic talent."

Zadkovich, at home either as a centre midfielder or right back, began his career as a youth and reserve-team player at Queens Park Rangers.

He didn't make an appearance at Loftus Road but signed for Notts County in March 2005 and scored on his debut against Chester City.

Zadkovich started six games and added a further three substitute appearances for the Magpies until his departure 6 months later following the arrival of Gudjon Thordason.

His recent career has been spent with Sydney FC, where he has scored two goals in 42 Hyundai A-League games.

The Sydney-born player has also represented Australia at under-20 and under-23 level and was recently selected for the Australian senior squad.