Derby furious as Leicester steal Everton striker on loan

Everton hit man James Vaughan is joining Leicester City's promotion push - to the fury of Championship rivals Derby County.

Vaughan has been cleared to sign for Nigel Pearson's ambitious outfit on loan, but Nigel Clough's Rams are furious about missing out on his signature.

The Goodison striker was due to rejoin Derby after an injury-hit spell was cut short in the first half of the season, but they found out last night they had lost him.

Instead Vaughan is going to the Foxes and will help their bid to make the play-offs, including a controversial clash with their East Midlands neighbours during his spell.

Vaughan has been told he can leave Everton permanently, with boss David Moyes deciding to cash in on him - so Leicester may have the chance to take him long-term.

Derby hoped Vaughan would come to them and make sure they beat the drop, with just an outside chance of joining the top-six if he fired in some goals.