Derby County have completed an emergency loan deal for Stoke City goalkeeper Jack Butland.
The England Under 21's shotstopper has agreed to a 28-day spell at the iPro Stadium, and is set to make his Derby debut away at Blackpool on Tuesday.
The move comes after first-choice 'keeper Lee Grant was ruled out for up to six weeks with a fractured foot, sustained in the Rams' 3-0 win over Reading on Saturday.
Grant had been a key figure in the Derby side, but with over 100 Championship appearences to his name, Butland has all the credentials to step in.
The former Birmingham City man, who captain the England U21s in their recent UEFA Euro Qualifying Play-Off with Croatia, is excited about the prospect of returning to the league in which he made his name.
Speaking to Derby County's official website, Butland said: "I have been on loan a few times since my debut season with Birmingham, I have played a lot of Championship games, it’s a fantastic league and one that I thoroughly enjoy. I look forward to getting some more games under my belt here.
“You have to be right on your game every week to get your promotion and Derby have had that form and that mentality. If they keep that up, it will be a very successful season.”
Butland joins a Derby side in second place in the Championship, and the 21-year-old is hoping the Rams will be able to maintain their rich vein of form during his time at the club.
“It has been a very quick turnaround and I am very excited for (facing Blackpool on Tuesday) and for the coming games with Derby. I am very excited to be here.
“Derby have been extremely good so far this season and we will be looking to build on that good form.
“It’s a great club to be at, it has great fan support, and they have a great stadium, training facilities and a great squad. I’m excited to be part of it, now hopefully we can get a win tomorrow and keep the smiles.”