West Brom have signed former Derby midfielder Giles Barnes.

The 21-year-old, a free agent after being released by the Rams in December, has been training with Albion to build up his fitness after rupturing his Achilles back in August.

Boss Roberto Di Matteo has been impressed enough to hand Barnes an initial 18-month contract.

The Italian told Albion's official website, www.wba.co.uk: "Giles has had his injury problems over the past couple of seasons but he has undoubted ability.

"He is making good progress in his recovery from his Achilles problem and we're giving him all the support he needs.

"We've seen enough encouraging signs to offer him this deal, which has been structured to suit all parties.

"There is no question that if Giles can get his career back on track, we'll have a very talented player on our hands."