Bristol Rovers Secure Shaq Forde’s Transfer from Watford with Help from Ruel Sotiriou
Bristol Rovers have made a significant addition to their squad with the acquisition of striker Shaq Forde from Watford. The 20-year-old has signed a three-year deal with the Gas, with the option of a further season, for an undisclosed fee. Forde’s move to Rovers was facilitated in part by his former Leyton Orient teammate Ruel Sotiriou, who spoke highly of the club and its environment.
Forde’s journey to Bristol Rovers began at Watford, where he came through the club’s academy and made his debut as a 17-year-old. After a loan spell at Kings Langley, where he impressed with two goals in three appearances, Forde returned to Watford and earned the Young Player of the Season award for his performances.
The young striker continued his development with a loan move to York City, where he scored nine goals in 20 league outings, including a memorable hat-trick. Forde then stepped up to League One level with Leyton Orient last season, scoring nine goals in 40 appearances. His impressive performances caught the attention of Bristol Rovers, who secured his services on deadline day.
Speaking about his move to Rovers, Forde expressed his excitement: “I’m really happy to finally get the deal done and be a Bristol Rovers player. The club has shown me just how much they value me and want me here. I can’t wait to meet the boys and get started now.” Forde also credited Sotiriou for influencing his decision, stating that his positive experiences at the club played a role in convincing him to make the move.
Manager Matt Taylor is thrilled to have Forde on board, highlighting the striker’s potential and track record in League One. “We are delighted to secure the signing of Shaq and bring him to Bristol Rovers. Shaq comes to us at a good age, with a lot of potential, and we are looking forward to working with him going forward,” said Taylor.
Forde’s arrival at Bristol Rovers marks the club’s 16th signing of the summer window and their second deadline day acquisition, following Gatlin O’Donkor’s arrival on loan from Oxford United. While Forde won’t be available for Rovers’ upcoming League One clash against Cambridge United, he is expected to make an impact for the team in the near future.
As Rovers prepare for the challenges ahead, they have also seen some movement in their forward ranks, with Jevani Brown departing on loan to Notts County. Promise Omochere, Sotiriou, and Chris Martin are among the other forwards at the club, with Martin currently sidelined due to a broken fibula.
With a promising young talent like Forde now in their squad, Bristol Rovers are looking to build on their strong start to the season and make an impact in League One. The striker’s partnership with his former teammate Sotiriou could prove to be a key factor in the team’s success as they aim to climb up the league table.