“Forever in my heart” – Super Eagles star says goodbye after club-record move

The Nigeria international is set to open a new chapter at the City Ground but not before an emotional wave back to the Hornets

Super Eagles attacker Emmanuel Dennis has sent a short but emotional goodbye message to Watford and the club fans after joining Nottingham Forest on Saturday.

Watford took a gamble on Dennis last year when they ignored the negative noise around the Nigeria international to bring him in from Club Brugge.

Dennis repaid much of that trust by almost single-handedly leading the Golden Boys’ survival charge in the Premier League.

The 24-year-old netted an impressive ten goals and added another six assists, but it was not enough to save Watford from dropping to the Championship.

Such an excellent return means Dennis was too good for the English second-tier, and it was no surprise to see several top-flight clubs credited with an interest in his services.

Nottingham Forest eventually won the race for his signature, with the Reds reportedly coughing out £20 million to make him the most expensive signing in their history. He overtakes compatriot Taiwo Awoniyi, who joined from Union Berlin earlier in the summer.

Dennis missed Forest’s first league win in over two decades – inspired by Awoniyi – but he was on hand to appreciate Watford for taking care of him for a year.

Writing on his Twitter page, Dennis promised to keep the Hornets in his heart for all time.

“Thank you Watford for everything; I want to wish the club all the best for this season and the future. Forever in my heart.”

Dennis will hope to make his debut for Forest when Steven Cooper’s men chase their second league win against Everton next weekend.