The toughest challenge is still to come in the Premier League, and Cooper will be looking to attract the right blend of potential and experience to aid their step up a level.

The Verdict

Bong's Nottingham Forest career has not gone according to plan, but his venture into English football as a whole has been extremely successful.

The Cameroon international joined Wigan Athletic from Olympiacos in 2015 and was picked up by Brighton and Hove Albion that summer.

Bong's footballing intelligence has shone through, as a player without many physical assets, and his contributions will not be forgotten by Seagulls and Reds supporters alike.

At 34, retirement at some stage in the near future will be on his mind, but it is likely that the left back has one final move in him, whether that is closer to home or if he can find another EFL club heading towards 2022/23.