Michael Dawson signing comes at the ideal time for Nottingham Forest

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On Wednesday night, Nottingham Forest announced the signing of centre-back Michael Dawson after the expiration of his contract at Hull City.

The acquisition of the ex-Tottenham defender is a superb addition to Forest’s backline and will add Premier League and promotion experience to Aitor Karanka’s squad.

The transfer also represents a homecoming of sorts, as Dawson began his career at the City Ground, leaving for Tottenham in 2005 after four first-team years at the club.

The Englishman enjoyed great success at White Hart Lane, leading Spurs into the Champions League and notching four international caps from 2010-2011.

After over 200 appearances in north London, Dawson joined Hull City in 2014, where he experienced two seasons in the top flight and two in the Championship.

An ever-present for the Tigers in his four seasons at the KC Stadium, Dawson gained valuable knowledge on how to lead a team to the Premier League, as he marshalled the side to promotion via the play-offs in 2015/16.

The 34-year-old centre-back will be a crucial part of Forest’s defence next season, as he brings priceless promotion experience and the skills of a lengthy Premier League career.

Known for his superb leadership skills, immense physical presence, and consistency at the back, Dawson can bring solidity to a team that conceded 65 goals last season- only eight Championship clubs allowed more.

Although some fans might fear Dawson’s advanced age may hinder his performances, the defender has shown little signs of letting up, as he made an impressive 40 appearances for Hull City last season.

The signing of Dawson is all the more laudable as as he will join on a free transfer after his Hull contract expires on June 30, a smart move that will respect Financial Fair Play regulations.

Michael Dawson will be an assured presence in the Nottingham Forest backline, as he represents an astute transfer that will inject the promotion-chasing side with Premier League experience and promotion guile.