Edworth joined the Rams in 2005 (Getty Images)

The 35-year-old full-back was told he was free to leave Pride Park.

But the club's defensive injury crisis means Edworthy is likely to start when Preston visit in Saturday's FA Cup tie.

"I felt my chance had gone, that I was surplus to requirements," he said. "But I've kept fit and still feel I'm capable of offering something."

Rams boss Jewell was forced to play the 35-year-old in Tuesday's FA Cup third-round replay penalty shoot-out win over Sheffield Wednesday because of the club's defensive problems.

The manager has said if an opportunity comes up I can go because he is looking to build for the future Marc Edworthy

Jewell has lost three full-backs in recent weeks with Tyrone Mears, Jay McEveley and Danny Mills, all ruled out.

"There are probably people who wonder what I'm still doing here, but I've looked after myself over the years," Edworthy said.

"The manager has said if an opportunity comes up I can go because he is looking to build for the future, which is fine. I can fully understand that.

"The window is still open, and I could yet go before it closes.

"If I leave it until the summer and I'm in the rat race with 400 to 500 other players, then it becomes difficult.

"But then if an offer did come in, and Paul asked me to stay due to the injury situation, then I would consider it.

"If he said that it would be a great boost for me, and he knows what he would expect from me.