Todd has been at Blackburn since 2002

Todd, 32, had 12 months left on his Rovers deal but was told he was surplus to requirements and could move on.

County have agreed a two-year deal and a fee believed to be in the region of �750,000 for the experienced campaigner who is a former Blackburn skipper.

And boss Billy Davies is delighted to have him on board: "It's important to have leaders in the dressing room and the pitch. Andy's a great competitor."

West Brom were also keen on the former Rovers captain, but the lure of Premier League football helped Derby's cause.

And Todd will be following in the footsteps of his father Colin, a Rams legend, when he sports County colours next season.

"It's special that I'm now playing for the club my dad played for," said Todd Jnr. "My dad was a good player, and if I can achieve half of what he did then I'll be happy."

Todd Snr made 371 appearances between 1971 and 1978 and helped Derby win two league titles.

"Andy is at Derby County on merit - it is nothing to do with me," he said.

"It is wrong and would be wrong for people to compare him with me as a player. He is very much his own player and his own person.

"He had some good spells at Blackburn. The season before last he was captain and player of the year, and played in most of the games. The second half of last season was a disappointment for him and there is no doubt he needed a fresh challenge.

"Hopefully, he can do well at Derby. He has the ability and is a good reader of the game and can pass. He deserves the opportunity to show what he can do.

"I'm pleased he has signed for Derby and of course it is a proud moment for me, but I'm just pleased he has gone to a good club and a Premier League club."

Former Bolton and Charlton player Todd has been at Blackburn since 2002, when he signed from the Addicks in a �750,000 deal.

He made a total of 115 appearances for the Ewood Park club.