Surrey sign Mark Footitt from Derbyshire on four-year deal

Surrey have signed fast bowler Mark Footitt from Derbyshire on a four-year deal.

Footitt was the top wicket-taker in the County Championship in 2014, and second top this summer.

In the past two seasons he has taken 158 first-class wickets, form which has seen him receive his first call up to the England squad.

He had a year left on his contract at Derbyshire, but they decided to let him go after agreeing a compensation fee with Surrey.

Surrey Director of Cricket, Alec Stewart, said: "We are delighted to have signed a bowler of the quality of Mark as he is a cricketer that has impressed us with his ability and work ethic for a number of years.

"His talent with both a red and white ball will add so much to our bowling attack and I would hope his move to the Kia Oval will see him achieve his ambitions of playing for England and competing strongly for domestic trophies."

Footitt said: "It is a fantastic opportunity for me to play First Division cricket at a Test Match Ground for a club with a great tradition. 

"It is a fantastic opportunity for me to play First Division cricket at a Test Match Ground."

"Working with another strong coaching set up at Surrey can only help to further my England ambitions which were started during my time at Derbyshire."

The acquisition of Footitt gives Surrey one of the most exciting fast bowling attacks in the country.

The Curran brothers, Tom and Sam, made major breakthroughs this summer, and they also have the likes of James Burke, Jade Dernbach, Matt Dunn and Stuart Meaker in their ranks.

Derbyshire chief executive Simon Storey told the county's website: "We obviously regret that Mark has decided to move on. Having rejected a contract extension on improved terms, Mark and his agent made it clear he was keen to explore options elsewhere and in these situations, it is better for all parties to find a solution professionally."

Footitt added: "I'm grateful for the support I have received from the club, Graeme [Welch] and his coaching staff during my time at Derbyshire.

"It was a difficult decision to leave, but I felt that at this stage in my career, now is the right time to move on and the opportunity to play first division cricket at a Test ground whilst working with another strong coaching set-up is the ideal next step."