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.”
Opinion: A Smart Move for Delap
For Delap, Nottingham Forest could be the ideal destination.
Rather than remaining at CHELSEA and fighting for limited minutes, the striker now has the chance to become a central figure for a club that has made a long-term commitment to him.
The move gives him a fresh start, a new challenge and the opportunity to build momentum through regular appearances. If Delap can establish himself as Forest’s leading striker and deliver consistently in front of goal, the transfer could prove to be one of the most important decisions of his career.
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