DERRICK Williams has left Bristol City and joined Blackburn Rovers for an undisclosed fee, signing a three-year deal.

The 23-year-old defender had just begun his fourth season at Ashton Gate after signing from Aston Villa in the summer of 2013.

The former Republic of Ireland Under-21 international was quick to establish himself in the City first team, making 48 appearances in his debut season and scoring his first senior goal against Tranmere Rovers.

The following year, Williams was an integral member of the double-winning squad, contributing 55 appearances and three goals on the left side of City’s three-man defence alongside Aden Flint and Luke Ayling.

Williams initially remained a regular starter in the Championship. This season, the 23-year-old’s only action has come in the EFL Cup ties at Wycombe Wanderers and Scunthorpe United.

Williams made a total of 135 appearances in a City shirt, scoring five goals.