POSH INTERVIEW: New-boy Nichols is more than just a goalscorer

Nichols signed a four-and-a-half year contract at the ABAX Stadium today (February 1) and he brings with him an impressive scoring record from his career at Exeter City.

The 22 year-old has been with the Grecians since he was 10 and he’s really started to make a name for himself in the last couple of seasons.

Nichols started 75 games for Exeter and scored 35 goals - close to a striker’s Holy Grail of a goal every two matches. He’s scored 12 goals this season including a well-publicised strike against Liverpool in the FA Cup.

That form attracted the attention of Championship clubs, but Nichols is adamant it was an easy decision to join a League One promotion push with Posh.

The fee paid by Posh will be undisclosed, but will be substantial with numerous add-ons included in the deal.

“It was a no-brainer really,” Nichols stated. “I was aware of other clubs showing an interest, but Peterborough have a great record of buying and developing young players from the lower leagues. They also play an attacking brand of football which suits me.

“I didn’t want to join a club where I wouldn’t play regularly. I’ve been used to playing every week in the last couple of seasons so the immediate aim is to get in the side and stay there.

“I pride myself on scoring goals, but there is more to my game than that. I play with a lot of energy, I like to link up the play, but I am also happy to stretch defences if I can. I will always work hard. Even when I’m not playing well I will put in a good shift.

“I’m convinced Peterborough are the right club for me. It’s great to join a club challenging for promotion. I’m grateful they came calling because it’s been an emotional time for me. It’s been a bit up and down because there was speculation I was going here and there and nothing happened.

“The Exeter manager (Paul Tisdale) told me last week that a club was after me and that a fee had almost been agreed so he told me to look after myself to make sure the transfer went through.

“I travelled up here yesterday (January 31) and signed today after joining in a very good training session with a very welcoming set of players. There is obviously a lot of talent and desire here and I can’t wait to join in.

“I had some great years at Exeter. The manager and the club did a lot for me, but the time was right for a move and a new challenge.”

Nichols is expected to be in the osh squad for the League One match at Chesterfield on Saturday (February 6).

He’s ineligible for the FA Cup having played in the competition this season for Exeter.