Richard Keogh has Derby contract terminated ‘for gross misconduct’

Derby have terminated the contract of captain Richard Keogh “for gross misconduct” following an internal disciplinary hearing.

The 33-year-old Republic of Ireland defender suffered a serious knee injury after he was involved in a car accident with Wales international Tom Lawrence and Mason Bennett on September 24.

Lawrence and Bennett, who later admitted to drink-driving charges, were both fined the equivalent of six weeks’ wages – the maximum contractual limit – by Derby.

A club statement on Wednesday evening following the hearing, read: “As a result of that process, Mr Keogh has had his contract terminated with immediate effect for gross misconduct. He has the right of appeal within 14 days.”