Jacobs fits the bill for Derby

Nigel Clough has confirmed his interest in Northampton Town midfielder Michael Jacobs.

 Hopeful of reaching agreement on a transfer fee with the Cobblers to avoid going to a tribunal for the out-of-contract 20-year-old, Clough said: "He is a player we like a lot and he fits into the profile of what we are trying to do here in terms of our recruitment.

"He could play a part for us next season and in doing that he will have the opportunity to improve himself and play at a higher level."

Having moved himself from Burton Albion to Derby, Clough has shown himself willing on a number of occasions to sign players from the lower divisions and give them an opportunity in the Championship.