Tobias Figueiredo has revealed how Aitor Karanka played a big role personally in his decision to join Forest.

The Portuguese defender joined Forest in January on loan from Sporting Club as part of Karanka's overhaul of the first-team. He has played a key role since then with seven appearances in the centre of defence as well as an impressive four clean sheets.

His move into the first-team has coincided with Forest's unbeaten run so he is yet to taste defeat at his new club. Karanka is intending to make his loan move permanent because of how much he has impressed in his limited time at the club.

Here's what Figueiredo had to say about his move in an interview with Portuguese O Jogo as quoted by Sportwitness: "The club were interested, manager Karanka himself. And I did not hesitate. It was a good choice for me."

"Since I was little, I dreamed to play in the English league. It’s the league where everyone dreams to play. We are talking about a second league, but it is a very competitive second league. The manager was interested, it also counted for me to choose to go."

The Verdict

Figueiredo has certainly impressed in his time with Forest, and Karanka will be glad that he put in the extra effort to get his man because it has certainly been worth it.

Signing him permanently seems like the next logical step because Sporting Lisbon don't need him and Forest need to ensure that none of their rivals acquire him.

The 24-year-old will certainly play a key part in their push for promotion next season, but keeping his and the club's unbeaten run going is the priority for now.