Mears missed three months of last season through injury

Derby defender Tyrone Mears has joined Marseille on a season-long loan, according to the French club.

Marseille, who are seeking cover for full-back Laurent Bonnart, said on their official website that they will have an option to buy the 25-year-old.

Last week, Rams boss Paul Jewell said Mears had no future at the club after his unauthorised trial with Marseille.

Mears joined Derby from West Ham last season and appeared 25 times as the Rams suffered Premiership relegation.

Mears flew to France on Thursday after Jewell had refused to sanction a loan deal between the clubs.

And Jewell insisted: "To me, he's just insulted the whole football club - the players, the staff, chairman, but more importantly the supporters.

"I'll tell you now, he'll never play for Derby again while I'm manager. Who does he think he is? It's an absolute affront to Derby County. I am absolutely raging.

"I don't want him here. I don't want him here at the football club anymore, that's for sure. If he wants a move, he can go.

"Tyrone Mears has no future at Derby. This is a brilliant place to work and he's just signed his death warrant."

Derby chairman of football Adam Pearson added: "To take off without being given permission and go on trial beggars belief.

"There is little doubt he will be disciplined in the most severe way possible.

"We are prepared to sell him but the price will have to be right. He is a proven player with a transfer value."