Nottingham Forest and Nigerian forward Emmanuel Dennis has revealed that Brazil legend Ronaldinho was his footballing idol growing up.
Dennis linked up with the Premier League new boys from Watford last week in a deal believed to be worth around £20 million including add-ons. He has been handed the number 25 jersey.
The 24-year-old has promised to entertain fans of his new club with his skill and trickery and has cited former Barcelona star and Brazilian legend Ronaldinho as his childhood hero. He told Forest’s official YouTube account:
“My idol growing up was Ronaldinho. He’s the reason I’m a footballer today. I just love everything about that guy and his talent with a football inspires me a lot. When I play, I just like to entertain people and have fun.
“I really like to nutmeg people. I had the most nutmegs in Europe last season which was crazy. I just love to have fun on the pitch, but I also want to score goals and add assists. I don’t really set targets, I just like to go and and express myself.”
Dennis is the second Nigerian to join Forest this summer, following Taiwo Awoniyi, who signed from Union Berlin in June. He is looking forward to playing alongside his international teammate.
“It would be lovely playing with him [Awoniyi] again. I’ve known him since I was like 14. That was a long time ago.”
Dennis is expected to make his Forest debut when The Reds visit Everton in their next league match on Saturday, August 20.
