Steve Cooper lays out a strategy for Richie Laryea

Richie Laryea has made an early strong impression at Nottingham Forest while awaiting his debut.

On Sunday, Laryea appeared in a matchday squad for the first time since joining the Reds from MLS side Toronto.

While he is yet to play in the Garibaldi, having recently returned from international duty with Canada, the 27-year-old is settling into life in Trentside.

“He’s a great guy,” Cooper told NottinghamshireLive ahead of his team’s midweek trip to face Blackburn Rovers.

“He had to go away with Canada – and well done to him for the campaign they are having, nearly qualifying for the World Cup.

“He’s had a bit of a stop-start introduction because of that.

“But he’s here now, and he’s trained the last few days.

“We got him on the bench on Sunday. I know he didn’t get into the game, but it was good for him to get involved in the warm-ups and be in and around the surroundings. That’s important.

“It’s good that he can stay with us now and be part of what we are doing.

“Like everybody, he’lll have an opportunity to make an impact.

“We had a session on Monday with the lads who didn’t play against Leicester, and it was a really top session. It was pleasing to see.”