Derby County have completed the £1.5 million signing of Robbie Savage from Blackburn Rovers.

The 33-year-old Welshman has become something of a hate figure for opposing players and supporters due to his combative playing style.

He clashed with Derby fans during his time with East Midlands rivals Leicester City, when he celebrated wildly after winning a late penalty against the Rams.

However, he has been a cult figure at all his clubs, and leaves Blackburn after two-and-a-half largely successful seasons.

He became a marginal figure at Ewood Park this season, falling behind David Dunn, Tugay, Aaron Mokoena and Steven Reid in the midfield pecking order.

The 33-year-old, who has agreed a two-and-a-half year contract, said: "I've never played in a promotion-winning side and I am sure I will do that at Derby if we do go down this season.

"I have walked away from European football with Blackburn because the manager admitted I might not play as much as I would like. Paul Jewell showed he wanted me and I am delighted to come."

Derby chairman Adam Pearson said: "I am delighted we have managed to sign Robbie Savage... I feel he will be a great success at this club.

"I am obviously aware of Robbie's previous relationship with the Pride Park crowd but I am also very sure that he has the ability and strength on character to repair very quickly any past history."

The Rams are rooted to the bottom of the Premier League table with one win in 21 games and have embarked on an ambitious January spree.

They have already signed Argentinian striker Emanuel Villa, former Newcastle winger Laurent Robert and former England man Danny Mills.

Tottenham midfielder Hossam Ghaly is currently at Pride Park ahead of his impending move, while Derby hope to sign a goalkeeper before the end of the week, with Jewell targetting Rangers' shot stopper Roy Carroll.

Alex Chick / Eurosport