Oleksandr Zinchenko has spoken for the first time since leaving Arsenal on loan, describing Nottingham Forest as a club that already feels like home.
The 28-year-old’s introduction to his new teammates was delayed due to his duties during the international break while Zinchenko’s debut will also have to wait as he is ineligible to play against Arsenal this weekend due to Premier League rules.
When he does finally get on the pitch, he will be the first Ukrainian to play for Forest.
“I feel unbelievable,” Zinchenko said after landing at the club this week. “I have to say a big thank you for the welcome from everyone. There are so many good people around the club and I am so happy.
“It’s an amazing opportunity. I want to help the team achieve its goals and show myself that I can do good things on the pitch. I remember the day when this opportunity came about; I was so happy and excited, to be honest.”
Zinchenko confirmed he is prepared to take on whichever role Forest require, be it defence or midfield. “I used to be asked what position is my best, but to be honest I’m ready to help my team wherever I can and wherever I’m needed, and I will always try to give my best,” he explained.
“I want to make an impact on the pitch but also off it. It’s important to be part of the team and help the young players as someone with that experience already. Then we can push each other to achieve big things.”
After touring the ground and museum, Zinchenko said his first impressions had strengthened his belief that the move was the right one. “I’m so impressed by the training ground, my team-mates and the people around. It feels like a family already – everything is close together and you have everything that you need there,” he said.
“It’s an incredible club; I watched the video in the museum and I learned things I didn’t know previously about Nottingham Forest. I’m so proud and excited to represent this club.”
Zinchenko’s Arsenal deal expires at the end of the season and you can read here why he was sent on loan and not sold.