Danny Batth opens up on Derby County transfer as he reveals lure of Pride Park
by Leigh Curtis · Derbyshire LiveDanny Batth says he is excited by the "project" at Pride Park as he explained why he moved to Derby County.
The centre-back became the club's second summer signing yesterday when he penned a one-year deal having rejected the chance to stay at Blackburn Rovers.
Derby have landed the 34-year-old on a free transfer with the defender arriving after a hugely impressive season at Ewood Park where he played more than 40 games.
Rovers wanted to keep Batth, but the centre-back was enticed by what John Eustace is trying to build at Derby after they avoided relegation last season.
"When I got the call, I was excited [by the opportunity] and I'm glad to be here now and ready to get down to work," he said.
"I just think it was a great opportunity for me to come and help the team and the club.
"I've played against Derby over the years. I know what an occasion it is when you play at the stadium and the support the club gets. I just wanted to be part of that.
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"It's a real project, and I think the foundations were set last year.
"The club is now looking to move forward, so I want to be a big part of that."
The move will reunite Batth with Eustace for whom he became a key figure before the latter quit Ewood Park for Derby in February.
Derby's head coach kept the Rams in the Championship against all the odds and experienced an excellent end to the season.
Batth added that Eustace's presence was a significant factor in his decision to move to Pride Park and he's eager to help Derby flourish next term.
"We've got a good relationship," he said. "We speak about football and get on well generally, and I like the way the manager works with his team.
"I know what I'm getting into coming here, and I'm sure we'll be pushing forward with the team this season. To be a part of that is a great privilege.
"It's just a case of improving on last season.
"I don't think any group of fans, or any club, likes to be down the bottom of the league. Building on last year and obviously playing as much as I can and competing for a place every day in training, both of those things [are my goals]."