The Poland international is excited to get going in the Championship.
Damien Perquis
Nottingham Forest recently completed the signature of Polish international central defender Damien Perquis.
The 32-year-old arrived at the City Ground from MLS side Toronto FC this summer as new Forest boss Philippe Montanier looks to improve the club’s defensive options.
It appears that the Pole has been dreaming of a move to England for some time.
Manchester United
Perquis was born and raised in France and admitted in an interview with Foot 365 this week that he has always dreamed of a move to English football – due to his love for Manchester United legend Eric Cantona:
“Frankly, it is like a dream. That’s what I said to my mother when I was ten, I had an Eric Cantona quilt, I dreamed of being professional, but above all I dreamed of playing in England. Today, that dream has come true.
“I did not necessarily expect it either, because the aim when I terminated my contract in Canada, it was more to return to France and find something, and there was this opportunity that is presented to me.
Eric Cantona in the stands
“I had a quilt with Eric Cantona drawn on it and I thought every time I went to bed at night. He was my idol, I saw him play in England, I saw that it was the English football and that’s what I liked football.”
Of course Forest fans will not be expecting to see Perquis doing anything quite like Cantona ever did at Elland Road or Old Trafford.
But what they will be expecting is a solid and experienced defender.
Republic of Ireland’s Conor Sammon in action with Poland’s Damien Perquis (L)
The 32-year-old has had successful spells at Troyes, Sochaux and Real Betis – so has some pedigree.
Perquis, who has also learned English during his time in Canada, will hopefully add some nous to the Forest back-line as Montanier looks to bring success back to the City Ground.
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