Goalkeeper Dean Henderson says he is feeling the benefits of getting regular game time with Nottingham Forest this season.
The 25-year-old has been first-choice between the posts for the Reds, having joined on loan from Manchester United in July. Although unable to play against his parent club last week, he has already made some significant contributions for Steve Cooper ’s side.
Henderson has previously hit out at United for “wasting” a year of his career, when he made just three appearances in the 2021/22 campaign. He was one of 22 signings made by Forest during the summer, and while it has taken time for the squad to gel, the shot-stopper is relishing his time at the City Ground.
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“I’m really enjoying it here,” he told the club’s match programme, prior to Sunday’s 1-1 draw with Chelsea. “Obviously, coming in during the summer with a big turnaround of players was interesting, but we’re getting our feet under the table. We worked hard during the winter break, and we’re excited to see what heights we can reach during the second half of this season.
“I think it was always going to be a process of signing players and getting them up to full match fitness, and also to know the level required in this country, because a few players arrived from overseas.
“I’m relatively happy with my form overall and it’s hard to be perfect every single game, but I’ve had some big moments. I’d like to think I have contributed to the team picking up a few points.
“I just want to get better as the season goes on. The first few games were difficult when I didn’t play last season, but it’s been great to play as often as I have so far.
“We have a tight group here in the goalkeeping department, which is always important. Danny Alcock is an unbelievable coach and is making us better goalkeepers.
“The union is so strong here and the boys get on very well, and we push each other every day to be the best we can for the team.
“We have a lot of quality throughout the dressing room, and we’ve got to believe we can perform to a high level because we have got a good blend of ability, experience and some younger players that are beginning to grow, and we have that togetherness.”
The Reds face a crunch clash at Southampton on Wednesday night. Home and away, the team have received tremendous backing this term, and Henderson is determined to repay that support.
“The fans are massive for us,” he added. “I think the supporters are the best in the country, so it’s an honour to play in front of them every single week, and they’re going to be a massive help for us going forward.
“One thing I would say is since I’ve got here, the supporters have been phenomenal. I thank them for the support, and when they sing my name it makes me feel 10 feet tall, and I know the other lads feel the same.
“This next block of games is huge for us, and that support is going to be important. It’s up to us now to repay them with the performances and results.”
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