Nottingham Forest under-23 goalkeeper Nicky Hogarth has revealed that he hasn't 'been disappointed' since deciding to sign from Rangers last summer in light of receiving a maiden Scotland under-21 call-up.
The 20-year-old has started over half of the matches in Premier League 2 this season for Andy Reid's side, who currently sit sixth in the 14-team Division 2 table as they approach the end of their first season at the level. Forest were able to enter the elite academy games programme after the academy secured Category 1 status this summer.
The young Reds kept back-to-back clean sheets in the month of March after 3-0 and 5-0 wins over Sunderland and West Bromwich Albion. With four matches remaining, they still have a realistic chance of finishing as runners up behind runaway leaders Fulham.
READ: Forest sign Rangers youngster tipped to make big impact
“It has been really good moving to Forest," Hogarth told our colleagues at the Scottish Daily Express. "It has been a lot different to Scotland, but I feel I am improving every week. I have been playing for Nottingham Forest’s under-23s. I have also trained a few times with the first team, which has also been a very good experience.
“It has allowed me to focus on my work and change a few things in my game, in terms of my positioning and other different aspects. It has been slightly different. Normally, goalkeepers my age are trying to get (out) on loan.
“I have flipped that, though. I did a few loans in my last few (years at) Rangers, and now I am back playing academy football with the under-23s. I am taking this season more as a development season for me.
"I just wanted to train and develop, which I have done, and next season I will definitely be looking to get out on loan and to play in the men’s game. Hopefully, that will give me the chance to show what I have worked hard on this season.”
Hogarth also admitted that a trip south of the border last summer 'sold' the player and a more permanent move.
“I left Rangers in the summer, and then I heard of Forest’s interest," the goalkeeper added. "I went down and met Adam Skinner (lead academy goalkeeping coach) and some of the other staff.
“I was pretty sold on it from there, and I haven’t been disappointed.”
