Albrechtsen to sign for Derby

Paul Jewell has confirmed to BBC Radio Derby that Martin Albrechtsen will join Derby County tomorrow on a Bosman from West Brom.

Albrechtsen joined the Baggies in a £2.7m deal from FC Copenhagen in June 2004 and made over 100 appearances. However, he never really commanded a place in the first team and was played in a variety of defensive positions to cover other players when injured or suspended.

The season of 2007/08 was possibly Albrechtsen's best season in Baggies colours where he played the majority of his games in central defence. He is blessed with pace and has good aerial ability but lacks a real defender's instincts and can often be dragged out of position.

When questioned most Albion fans will probably say that they will be sorry to see the player go but that he is most definitely replaceable.

Who replaces Albie in the squad remains to be seen but Ibrahima Sonko was linked earlier in the summer and Mark Beevers of Sheffield Wednesday is the latest name put forward. There could be a chance of a swap deal involving Slusarski, who enjoyed a successful loan spell with the Owls.

We shall see what the coming days bring but most Baggies will be keen to see new faces joining sooner rather than later.

Having seen Gera and Albrechtsen leave on a free it is believed that it will be third time lucky for Albion with Kevin Phillips. The veteran striker is expected to put pen to paper on a new deal this week.

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