The defender thanked his former club and their fans after two-and-a-half years

Curtis Nelson has paid tribute to everyone at Derby County after he left to join MK Dons.

The 32-year-old played 83 times for the Rams during a two-and-a-half year spell at Pride Park. He played under head coach Paul Warne, helping the side to promotion from League One, and ensured they maintained their Championship status.

Injury over the last year has limited him to just two outings, with his final appearance for Derby coming on Boxing Day when he was a half-time substitute in the 1-1 draw with Birmingham City.

After signing for Dons on Thursday, Nelson took to social media to bid farewell to his former club.

“Thank you to all the fans for the last 2 and half seasons at this amazing club,” he wrote. “Your support home and away is second to none. Nothing better than a bouncing Pride Park!

“The memories made will last forever, in particular gaining promotion back to the Championship. Shout out to all of the staff at Moor Farm and Pride Park that keep this great club ticking.

“And to the playing staff and coaches who have kept me ready for training and games.

“Special mention to the medical and S&C teams in particular for putting me back together for the best part of 8 months.

“It wasn’t pretty or easy but they got me through some tough times!”