Derry moves to Leeds

Last updated : 18 February 2005 By Nik Taylor

Palace midfielder Shaun Derry has signed for Leeds United for an undisclosed fee.

Derry had been a regular for Palace in Division One after his signing in August 2002, but hadn’t seen many games since our promotion to the Premiership.

The 27-year-old had been on loan at Nottingham Forest, but once Leeds’ renewed interest became clear, he was recalled enabling him to sign a two-and-a-half year contract with the Yorkshire club.

Leeds had been after the feisty midfielder towards the end of last year, but the deal hit a last-minute hurdle and fell through. Now, with Ken Bates’ money stabilising the Elland Road club, Kevin Blackwell has been able to get his man.

Derry could start his first match for Leeds on Saturday, as he’s gone straight into the squad for their away game at Wigan.

Meanwhile, Palace have confirmed Aki Riihilahti will be out for another two weeks at least after tearing a calf muscle during the thumping at Arsenal. Aki will definitely miss the crucial home game against Birmingham City.