Wilson hails international's arrival

Rob Kozluk, the experienced former Sheffield United and Barnsley star, has agreed to join Ilkeston FC.

The 35-year-old utility player and former England Under 21, who is predominantly a right-back but can play across the defence and also in midfield, signed on Thursday after training at the New Manor Ground. He goes straight into Kevin Wilson's squad for Saturday's home game against Frickley Athletic.

But Kozluk's contribution at the Evo-Stik NPL Premier Division club won't end there. He will also work at the New Manor Ground on a daily basis helping to coach the club's 40 scholars.

Robins manager Wilson: "It’s a fantastic signing for us and I’m really excited about it from both points on view. Although Rob has not been playing this season, he has been training regularly with Chesterfield and, in my opinion, he is still more than capable of doing a job for a Football League club.

"He has vast experience with more than 300 League games at a high level, and that’s a commodity that we feel we’re a bit short of at the moment. Obviously his ability to play in numerous positions will also be a big asset. He has an excellent pedigree and will be good in our dressing room - but I’m equally excited about what Rob can do for us in a coaching capacity.

"He is keen to work towards his B Coaching Licence and we're giving him the platform to achieve that by working every day with the scholars. He lives in Derby, so travelling is not an issue, and apart from being good for us and him, it will be great for the young boys to get the benefits of his experience."

Mansfield-born Kozluk began his career with Derby and also served Huddersfield, Wigan, Preston, Port Vale and Bradford City, as well as winning two caps for England Under-21s.