Trigg' returns

By Jack Nolan
January 31 2007

Nottingham Forest midfielder Nicky Southall has returned to Gillingham for his third spell at Priestfield. 'Trigger' has moved on a free transfer from Forest and has put pen to paper on a two-and-a-half year deal.

In two other spells at Gillingham, Southall made 238 appearences whilst scoring 23 goals before moving to Nottingham Forest following The Gills' relegation to League One two years ago.

Forest Chief Executive Mark Arthur revealed: "Gillingham inquired about Nicky and they were willing to offer him a two and a half year contract.

"We were aware of his desire to return to Kent and in recognition of the service he has given us over the last two seasons we went along with his wishes."

Gillingham manager Ronnie Jepson revealed his delight in signing Southall today. Jepson said: "He'll be a good addition to the squad and he knows the club well, he's got strong feelings for both the club and the people around here, the chairman has been onto this one since the window opened, and Nottingham Forest offered him an extension to his current deal, so it's been quite difficult getting him here, but we spoke to the powers that be and eventually we got him. He'll be a great addition to the squad.

"He's fit as a butchers dog, he's only missed five games in the last two years. He knows what Gillingham is all about and knows what we are trying to get. He realises where we are at this moment in time but he knows things will improve, and he's one of those boys who can help us improve," said Jepson.

"It's refreshing, for the simple reason he could have sat up there at Forest for 12 months and earned perhaps what he could here in two years, but it shows you the affinity he has in the club and in this day and age, the chairman has been speaking to several players this week, and we feel maybe let down because we thought we may have had one or two or those but they opt for the extra few pounds, which is life, but when somebody like Nicky comes along and takes the deal on offer, it's quite refreshing to say the least.

"He will add competition and experience, and he has a winning mentality, which is very important for me," he said.

Southall's last and final game for Forest was against Chelsea last Saturday in their three goal to nothing defeat in the FA Cup. Southall also celebrated his 35th birthday at Stamford Bridge.

Southall had made 77 appearences for Forest, scoring 14 goals. Three of which came in a hat-trick against Swindon last season.

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So one signing has been made on deadline day, and keep checking GFC Online to see if anymore shall sign on the dotted line!