West Ham defender Tyrone Mears has joined Championship leaders Derby County on loan until the end of the season.

Mears joined the Hammers in the closed season as part of former manager Alan Pardew's summer plans.

But he has not been a regular in new boss Alan Curbishley's side and has opted to try pastures new at Pride Park.

Rams manager Billy Davies tied up the deal shortly before the transfer window closed and knows what Mears can offer, as the defender played under him at Preston North End.