Kyle’s not having a Laff when he says he’s in his best shape for years
Kyle Lafferty insists he can finally realise his Serie A dream after joining ambitious Italian side, Reggina.
The former Rangers and Hearts forward has penned a two-year deal with the Calabrian outfit after departing Sunderland.
Reggina will be plying their trade in the second tier after winning promotion from Serie C last season.
But the Northern Irishman has set his sights on firing “Gli Amaranto” to the top-flight at the first time of asking.
It is the 32-year-old’s second stint in Italy, having helped Palermo romp to the Serie B title in 2013/14, while playing alongside current Juventus superstar, Paulo Dybala. However, Lafferty returned to British football with Norwich City before getting the chance to mix it with the likes of Milan, Inter and Roma.
He said: “I’ve always wanted to come back to Italy. “I enjoyed my time with Palermo, had a successful season and the football was good.
“I always had the idea to return at the back of my mind. “I think everyone agrees that Reggina are a club who should be in Serie A. So to get the opportunity to hopefully win another title and play in Serie A is exciting.
“Until now, I’ve had a successful career, I’ve won titles in numerous countries and I want that to continue.
“I’m a team player. I’ll fight until the end and I’ll never throw in the towel.
“Everyone in Italy will know from my time at Palermo that I’m a fighter. I’ll do everything to get this team into Serie A.”
Lafferty found the net twice in 11 appearances for Sunderland after joining the Black Cats from Norwegian side, Sarpsborg, in January.
He has also enjoyed stints in Switzerland and Turkey during a varied career.
In his 34 league games previously in Italian football, he scored 11 times.
He left six years ago, but the rangy attacker is adamant he is still in prime shape to cut a dynamic presence up front.
Speaking at his official unveiling, Lafferty continued: “Although I’m seven years older than I was at Palermo, I still feel fit .
“In fact, I’m the fittest I’ve been for maybe four or five years.
“You’ll still see me popping up in all areas of the pitch, working hard and helping the team in defence.
“However, first and foremost, I’m here to score goals.”