Michael Bailey Former Norwich City striker Robert Earshaw has admitted to “more than a twinge” of regret he left Norwich last summer. The Wales international finally ended his Derby County nightmare by joining Coca-Cola Championship newcomers Nottingham Forest for for £2.65m last week.

Michael Bailey

Former Norwich City striker Robert Earshaw has admitted to “more than a twinge” of regret he left Norwich last summer.

The Wales international finally ended his Derby County nightmare by joining Coca-Cola Championship newcomers Nottingham Forest for £2.65m last week, having scored just one goal in seven top flight starts during the Rams' painful campaign - officially the worst in Premier League history.

The 27-year-old denied he was close to re-signing for his former side, for whom he scored 27 Championship goals in just 41 starts, and also admitted he is already looking forward to returning to Carrow Road as a Forest player next season.

Earnshaw left Norwich for play-off victors Derby last summer, after County's offer of £3.5m triggered a release clause in the striker's contract.

It was an offer the City board were contractually obliged to accept, but as Derby managed just one solitary Premier League victory in 38 attempts last season, Earnshaw was candid as to whether he felt a twinge of regret for leaving Norwich in the first place.

“It was more than a twinge,” said Earnshaw. “I didn't really want to leave the team because I did like it there a lot. But it was just the fact I had a buyout clause at the time, which took affect when Derby came in with enough money.

“I had a decision to make, whether to play in the Premier League or Championship, and that was basically it.”

Speculation had been mounting Earnshaw could end is Derby nightmare be returning to Carrow Road, after reports he had recently stayed at a local hotel regularly used by the club.

But, as far as the Welshman was aware, there was never an offer on the table.

“No, I don't think it was. I didn't hear anything of it, it's not like there was an offer or anything,” he added. “They weren't one of the clubs [interested]. It would've meant a bit of money going back to Derby and there is a bit that has gone from Forest, and I don't think there is that much money at Norwich.”

Which leaves Earnshaw's return to Carrow Road next season coming by way of an appearance in a red Forest shirt - which the striker happily admits is something he is still looking forward to.

“Yes, I am actually. I haven't been back there [as a player] since I left and I love the place. I loved playing there, the fans were brilliant and I'm looking forward to it. Obviously I'll be wanting to win, but I love the place so it'll be good to be back there,” said Earnshaw, who is just glad to have his future secure at Forest.

“It's good. I wanted it sorted before it went on any longer. The set-up they've got is good and it's a young squad that has done well and gained promotion to the Championship. And we'll try to do well in the Championship next season.

“After I knew about the interest from a few clubs, I thought I had already been given my chance at Derby and if it wasn't going to happen this year, it won't happen next year and there seemed little point in dragging it on.

“But to be honest, if [Forest] is anything like it was at Norwich, I'll be more than happy and that's how I'm looking at it. I had a great time, scored lots of goals and I was enjoying it, and that's all you can ask for in your career.”