Derby County have signed Wayne Rooney from Major League Soccer outfit DC United on an 18-month deal with the former England skipper set to take up his role in January, the Championship club said Tuesday.

"I'm very excited about the opportunity that Derby County have provided me with... I'm sure I can make a big contribution and can't wait to meet everyone," Rooney, who will also continue to develop his coaching credentials at the club, said in a statement on Derby's website.