Derby County have strengthened their defensive options by signing experienced defender Jack Robinson on an initial three-month contract as head coach John Eustace looks to navigate a growing injury crisis at Pride Park.
The Rams confirmed the 33-year-old’s arrival on Saturday, October 17, 2026, after he became a free agent following the mutual termination of his contract with Birmingham City last month.
Robinson’s arrival provides Derby with additional defensive cover at a crucial stage of their Championship campaign, with several injury concerns limiting the club’s options at the back.
The signing follows Derby’s disappointing 4–1 defeat to Queens Park Rangers on October 14, during which defender Sondre Langås suffered a groin injury after just 12 minutes. The setback added to the club’s existing defensive problems and increased the pressure on Eustace to find suitable alternatives.
Langås is expected to spend a significant period on the sidelines, leaving Derby with another challenge to overcome as they attempt to improve their defensive performances.
Robinson brings considerable experience to the Rams, having previously represented Liverpool, Nottingham Forest, Queens Park Rangers, Sheffield United and Birmingham City. He has spent much of his career competing in English football’s second tier, giving him valuable familiarity with the demands of Championship football.
The defender’s versatility could also prove useful to Derby, as he is capable of operating at both centre-back and left-back. His experience and flexibility offer Eustace another option when selecting his defensive line-up.
However, Robinson’s immediate contribution will depend on his physical condition. Derby confirmed that his fitness would be assessed by the club’s strength and conditioning staff before he joined his new teammates on the pitch. He was unavailable for the Rams’ match against Stoke City on October 17, meaning his debut will depend on his readiness for competitive action.
For Derby, the signing represents a practical response to their defensive difficulties. Bringing in an experienced free agent allows the club to strengthen the squad without paying a transfer fee, while the initial three-month contract gives Robinson an opportunity to demonstrate his value.
Nevertheless, his arrival alone is unlikely to resolve all of Derby’s defensive concerns. The team will need greater defensive organisation, fewer costly mistakes and improved consistency if they are to turn their recent struggles around.
Robinson’s experience could prove valuable during this difficult period, particularly if he settles quickly and establishes himself as a reliable option at the back.
Derby supporters will now be hoping that the former Nottingham Forest defender can regain his match fitness and make a positive contribution as the Rams look to overcome their injury problems and improve their Championship campaign.
