IT took a long time but Claude Davis has finally left with a reputation as Derby County's worst major signing.

In the two years since Billy Davies captured him from Sheffield United for £3m, the central defender managed only 31 games.

He had fitness problems and even bigger ones with his form.

Nigel Clough could see no future for Davis at Pride Park, so it fell to Adam Pearson, the chairman of football, to negotiate a severance.

Davis had two years left on his contract and, in the light of his fee, was one of the major wage-earners.

Reaching settlements with Davis, Roy Carroll and Martin Albrechtsen probably cost more than the incoming fees this summer.

Players sign contracts and cannot be blamed for taking what is due to them.

The manager's judgement must be accepted when signings are made.

There is no other way but Davies and Paul Jewell did not leave a strong hand for the Rams.