Efe Ambrose believes Graeme Shinnie will be an excellent signing for Derby County, the Derby Telegraph report.
The Rams managed to fend off competition from Championship rivals to secure the signing of Shinnie. The Scotland international’s contract at Aberdeen expires this summer, prompting a fight over his signature.
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Shinnie has been in superb form north of the border over the past 12 months. He has captained Aberdeen to another top four position, while being selected in the PFA Team of the Year.
Ambrose has played against Shinnie before having joined Derby from Hibernian in January. Talking to the Derby Telegraph, the Nigerian defender believes the Rams have pulled off quite a coup.
It’s a good move for Derby and it’s good for Graeme. He is a great signing for the club because he is a very influential player for Aberdeen. I always admired Shinnie when I played against him and I believe he will be a success in English football. He is a quality midfielder with a great attitude. To get the Aberdeen captain is a very good move by Derby.
How Graeme Shinnie is likely to slot into Derby County’s midfield next season:
Shinnie’s arrival at Derby this summer is timely due to the contractual situation of several players at Pride Park.
The likes of Jacob Butterfield, Craig Bryson and Bradley Johnson are all coming to the end of their deals. Meanwhile, Mason Mount and Harry Wilson return to their parent clubs from their Derby loan spells. It means there is going to be a big void to fill in midfield, giving Shinnie a great chance of automatic first-team football.
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Shinnie, 27, has his best years ahead of him and Derby are a progressing side with manager Frank Lampard at the helm. It seems a good match for both parties, and Rams supporters will be hoping he can replicate fellow Scot John McGinn’s success at Aston Villa.
Also see: Derby County cashing in on Scott Carson amid reported Burnley interest makes sense.