Rams rap for AWOL Mears

Derby have confirmed defender Tyrone Mears will face 'severe discipline' after having an unauthorised trial with French side Marseille.

Rams chairman of football Adam Pearson revealed that 25-year-old Mears, who joined the club from West Ham in 2007 for £1million, had not been given permission to fly to France to link up with the Ligue 1 outfit, who are possibly wanting to sign him. And he said there will be no deal with Marseille and Mears is now set to be punished.

Pearson told BBC Radio Derby: "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."