Norwich City youngster William Hondermarck has been speaking about how he came close to joining Nottingham Forest – but says he is pleased he didn’t sign for the Reds.
The promising 18-year-old midfielder had a trial at the City Ground two years ago, but instead went on to break into the first-team at Irish second tier side Drogheda.
An impressive debut season for them saw Hondermarck catch the eye of a number of clubs, and he signed for the Canaries in January.
The teenager has made two appearances for Norwich’s Under-23s since then and six for the Under-18s.
He says he is now better prepared for the challenge which comes with the move to Carrow Road than he was when he tried his luck at Forest.
“I was too young,” he told Irish website The 42. “I thought I was ready for a big move like that, but I was nowhere near mature enough.
“It’s better off that it didn’t work out.
“Going over at this age is much better for me.
“Some people are ready at that age, but I don’t think I would have been.
“I’ve really enjoyed the time I’ve spent over at Norwich so far. I’ve already learned a lot.
“When you play against teams like Tottenham and Arsenal, you get more of an understanding of the technical and tactical side of the game.
“Everything — the players, the pitches, the training — is of a high standard. To be able to go into an environment like that is a dream come true.
“Is it a challenge? Of course. But I wouldn’t say it’s daunting. To get a chance like this is a gift.”
