Nottinghman Forest have bolstered their strike force ahead of their return to the Championship with the signing of Robert Earnshaw from Derby.

The Wales international arrived at the City Ground for £2.65 million and has penned a three-year-deal with the Midlands club.

The 27-year-old found opportunities at Pride Park last season few and far between and made only seven starts in a Rams shirt, scoring just two goals in a total of 25 appearances.

But his experience in the Championship, where he has already demonstrated a formidable striking record, will help Forest as they return to the second tier of English football after a three-year absence.

Earnshaw told the club's official website: "Everyone knows all about the club and what it's about. Getting to know Colin Calderwood was important - I wanted to get to know what he was like and what he's looking for.

"We had a good long chat and that was a big factor in my decision on the end. Now that everything is sorted I can't wait for the start of the season.

"Promotion for Forest was huge and hopefully we can keep the exciting times going. Forest have got a young squad who want to do well and that goes a long way. There shouldn't be any surprises as to how good the team can be.

"On appearances and getting the chance to play, Derby was disappointing but that's how it goes. I'm just looking at it as a chapter closed, I will learn from it and am looking forward to getting back to playing football."

Forest chairman Nigel Doughty said: "When you look at Robert's record, in terms of goals per game, he's probably the most successful Championship player.

"Allied with the strike force that we already have, I think it means we will be a potent goal-scoring force next season and we already know we've got a very good defence.

Mike Hytner / Eurosport