JAMIE Mackie insists he quit QPR for Nottingham Forest in a bid to find regular first-team football.
The Scotland striker completed a £1million move to the City Ground on a three-year deal yesterday after handing in a transfer request on Thursday night.
Mackie played a bit-part role towards the end of the season as Rangers were relegated from the Premier League – his last start coming in the defeat against Manchester United back in February.
And with Harry Redknapp in the market for another forward, the 27-year-old knew it was time to move on.
He told the Chronicle : “I didn't play regularly towards the end of the season.
“I heard that Forest had a bid rejected and it went from there.
“The decision I made was based on my desire to play first-team football.
“I respected the manager's decision - he wanted to bring in his own players as well.
“I loved my time at QPR, but at this stage of my career I want to be playing week in, week out.
“Forest is a great move for me and hopefully I can get back playing as well as I can.”
Mackie scored 18 goals in 94 games for Rangers following his switch from Plymouth Argyle in 2010.
He played a key role in QPR's Championship-winning side that year before suffering a horrific leg break midway through the campaign.
“I had some great times at QPR,” Mackie added.
“Getting promoted was obviously a highlight. It was an unbelievable year for the club.
“There were some goals to remember as well, like the one at Derby and the winner against Liverpool the year we stayed up.
“I made some fantastic friends there and hope they do well. The fans were great – we had a nice rapport.
“I hope they see another team who gets promotion because they deserve it.”
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