EPL's most prolific nutmegger 2021-22 reveals Barcelona icon Ronaldinho was his childhood idol

Super Eagles star Emmanuel Dennis has revealed the influence of Ronaldinho on his career, stating that the Barcelona great was his footballing idol growing up.

Dennis completed his move to Nottingham Forest last weekend and is seemingly in contention to make his debut for the two-time European champions against Everton on Saturday, having been spotted training with the rest of his teammates ahead of the trip to Goodison Park.

The 24-year-old directly participated in sixteen goals (10 goals, 6 assists) in thirty-three Premier League appearances over the course of the 2021-2022 season.

Like his idol Ronaldinho, Dennis showed that he is one of the most skillful players in the Premier League by topping the division's nutmeg chart with twenty-one, six more than second placed Raphinha and Jadon Sancho.

Although the flamboyant Nigerian attacker couldn't prevent Watford from being relegated, he helped them become the best team in Europe at nutmegs.

Speaking to Nottingham Forest's official website, Dennis said : "My idol growing up was Ronaldinho. He’s the reason I’m a footballer today.

"I just love everything about that guy and his talent with a football inspires me a lot. When I play, I just like to entertain people and have fun.

"I really like to nutmeg people. I had the most nutmegs in Europe last season which was crazy.

"I just love to have fun on the pitch, but I also want to score goals and add assists.

"I don’t really set targets, I just like to go and play and express myself."

Dennis is competing with international teammate Taiwo Awoniyi for a spot in Nottingham Forest's attack.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

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