PATIENT LEO HAS DESIRE TO SHINE AT REDS
LEO Bonatini is itching to make an impact after a slow start at Nottingham Forest.
The Brazilian forward arrived at the club on loan from Wolves on January transfer deadline day – but had not got off the mark heading into the weekend.
Three brief substitute appearances and a sole start, which culminated in the 24-year-old being hooked at half-time, don’t make stellar reading.
But the striker is eager to make an impact at Forest, despite concerns over his match readiness after struggling for minutes at his parent club.
“I spoke this week with the gaffer (Martin O’Neill) and he said that he is happy with my fitness,” he said.
“The game I played with the Under-23s has helped me as well. Having some minutes is important for me.
“I know it’s hard and I know it’s difficult because I’ve been a long time without playing 90 minutes.
“Also, there are lots of players here who are playing well and doing well; we are winning games and have taken some important points away from home
“The players who are outside the team, we are working hard and waiting for our chance.
“When we get the time and when we have the chance to play, we can show what we can do and help everyone on the pitch.”
Bonatini also confirmed his desire to stay in Nottingham beyond his loan deal.
He added: “It is a really good team and they have very good conditions here. Even if we don’t achieve the play-offs and we are staying in the Championship next season, I would like to stay because I have found it really good.
“But of course I know that it is not just about me. I have a contract with Wolves, but I am enjoying being here.”