Liam Delap says he cannot wait to get started at Nottingham Forest after completing his permanent move from Chelsea.
The 23-year-old striker has joined the Reds on a five-year contract, bringing an end to his spell at Stamford Bridge and opening an exciting new chapter in his career at the City Ground.
Delap arrives at Forest with valuable experience behind him and will also be reunited with two familiar faces. The former CHELSEA forward will once again share a dressing room with James McAtee and Omari Hutchinson, having previously played alongside both during earlier stages of his career.
Delap and McAtee spent time together in Manchester City’s youth system, with both players regarded as highly promising talents before embarking on their respective senior careers. The striker also developed a strong connection with Hutchinson during their time together at Ipswich Town.
“I’m buzzing. I really can’t wait to get started, it’s a massive club with a big history so I can’t wait
“I spoke with the Head Coach and I really like his way. I think he can be the one to really help me develop and get to that next step. There’re some top players here as well and I’m looking forward to playing alongside them.”
“It was probably the time when I’ve enjoyed playing football the most and I think that was when I played my best football as well. Hopefully I can recreate that here.
“I’ve spent a lot of time with Macca and it’s really helpful when you know people and I had the year with Omari as well. I think those connections will definitely help with settling in.
“Macca is one of my best mates and I think we played really well together when we were younger so I can’t wait to be on the pitch with him once more.”
Forest will be hoping his physical presence, work rate and ability in front of goal can strengthen their attacking options over the coming seasons. A long-term five-year contract also suggests that the club see Delap as a player capable of becoming an important part of their project.
For Delap, the familiarity of having McAtee and Hutchinson alongside him could prove equally important. Moving to a new club can often require an adjustment period, but joining a squad containing former teammates should help the striker feel at home quickly.
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