Lockwood heads to Forest

Matthew Lockwood has moved to Nottingham Forest for an undisclosed fee.

After nine years at Leyton Orient Matthew Lockwood has moved to Nottingham Forest for an undisclosed fee.

In May 2007 the left-back signed a new two-year deal at Brisbane Road but when the chance to play for Forest arose Lockwood saw it as an opportunity too good to miss.

Lockwood said: "Obviously, it's a bit of a wrench leaving Orient after so long, but this was a move I couldn't turn down.

"To get the opportunity to join a club with Forest's tradition is marvellous."

Forest activated a clause in Lockwood's contract enabling a swift transfer and the player was surprised how quickly the move was concluded.

"I can't believe how quickly it's all happened," added Lockwood.

"I can already sense there's a good mood in the camp and at this stage it's all about us getting ready for August 11."

Despite being disappointed to lose his man O's boss Martin Ling had nothing but good things to say about the defender.

Talking to the club's official website, Ling said: "He has been a great servant to Orient over the last nine years. I wish him all the best at Forest.

"He's been very close to moving on in the past and I think he felt that this was too good an opportunity to turn down."