Arvin Appiah is ready to showcase his talent for Bristol Rovers after a spell on the sidelines and years spent travelling across Europe to play football.
The 25-year-old came through the ranks at Nottingham Forest alongside current Pirates player Riley Harbottle before moving to Spain in September 2019, signing for Segunda División side Almería.
He made 62 appearances in all competitions for the Rojiblancos. However, he spent much of his time on loan, staying in Spain with Lugo, Tenerife and Málaga. The midfielder also went to England with Rotherham United, Portugal with Nacional and France with Amiens.
After leaving Almería in the summer, Appiah is back in England and can't wait to get going under Steve Evans, whom he played under at Rotherham...
Arvin, welcome to Bristol Rovers Football Club. How does it feel to be here?
"I'm grateful and honoured to be here. I can't wait to get on the pitch after being out for so long. I'm happy back in a footballing environment, and it's a good one, so I can't complain."
Talk to us about your football career so far...
"I started at Nottingham Forest academy, and I left at 18 or 19 to go over to play in Spain with Almería. I have also played in Portugal, and I played in France last season. I have been around the world and have had a few good experiences."
How did playing abroad help you on and off the pitch?
"When I first went, it was difficult. I had to learn different languages, different cultures and different playing styles, but it's helped me mentally, physically and spiritually as well. So, I am grateful for these experiences, and hopefully I can come here and bring my experience to help this great team achieve what it wants."
You have played under Steve before. What were those conversations like?
"He knows what I can do and what I can bring to this team. He just wants me to get my confidence back up, and I am grateful for him to put that trust back in me. Now, I have got to show it on the pitch. So, I am raring to go."
How have you settled in so far?
"I have settled in. I have one of my boys here in Riley, and he is like a brother to me. I have been with him at Forest since I was young. I spoke to him, and he told me how good this club is, the manager and the facilities. Also, I was with Clinton Mola at the England setups. I have settled in and integrated myself very well with the team."
How did you know that Bristol Rovers was the right choice?
"My injury last season was a big one, but I am grateful to God that I have recovered well, and I just needed somewhere to come back where they can believe in me and my ability to go and showcase it. Also, having history with the gaffer, I think it is the right place to go and showcase myself and go and kick on."
How excited are you to get out on the pitch?
"I can't wait to meet all of the fans at The Mem and to get this team to where it belongs."
For the fans, what type of player are you?
"I like to get on the ball, be direct, go at my man, excite the crowd and link up with my teammates."
