Derby County sell Simon Dawkins to San Jose Earthquakes

Simon Dawkins has left Derby County to join MLS side San Jose Earthquakes on a permanent deal.

The 28-year-old returns to the side he played for on loan in the 2011 and 2012 seasons after scoring nine goals in 74 appearances for Derby.

This season he has not featured once in the Championship for Derby, but Rams boss Paul Clement praised him for his "respectful and hard-working" nature.

"We wish Simon, who was a popular member of the dressing room, every success at San Jose Earthquakes," Clement told the club website.

"He handled that situation well - it would have been easy to down tools, reduce his effort and possibly be disruptive.

"Instead, he was professional, respectful and hard-working and he dealt with the disappointment with class and he is an example to us all."

Dawkins was due to be out of contract this summer.