Nottingham Forest agreed to let Sam Surridge join MLS side Nashville for a fee in the region of £5 million earlier on this summer. The 25-year-old has enjoyed a great spell in the US scoring two goals in his first two outings for the club.
His great goalscoring run continued last night, as he scored and assisted in Nahsville’s 2-0 victory over Monterrey, securing their place in the Leagues Cup Final against an Inter Miami side featuring Lionel Messi.
Surridge is taking full advantage of regular first-team minutes in America, something which he found hard to come by behind Taiwo Awoniyi at the City Ground.
He only started one game during the 2022/23 Premier League campaign, coming on the opening day in the 2-0 defeat to Newcastle United.
The former Reds striker was perhaps a surprise departure from the Forest squad this summer. Steve Cooper’s side only have Awoniyi as a central striking option, and it was thought he might be kept until a replacement joined the club.
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Three in three for Super Sam
Every Forest fan knows about the goalscoring ability that Surridge possesses, however, it was clear that the Premier League was a step too far for him.
His start to life in the US will give his confidence a huge boost. After a whole season of being an impact player for Cooper, being the star for his new side has allowed him to showcase his natural ability.
His goal last night was a trademark Surridge finish as he opened up his body and caressed the ball into the far corner.
So smooth from @surridge_sam 😮💨 pic.twitter.com/ymF1UMMsb9
— Nashville SC (@NashvilleSC) August 16, 2023
The striker was a model professional during his stint at the City Ground, but unfortunately, the last 12 months have held him back from reaching his full potential.
Now he’s finding his groove again, with Forest fans able to watch him on Monday morning as he and his new teammates try and defeat Messi, Jordi Alba and co to win the 2023 Leagues Cup.