Nottingham Forest defender Omar Richards has admitted he is loving live on loan at Rio Ave, as his apartment is close to the beach.
O Jogo have an interview with the 26-year-old today in which he admits he’s loving life in Portugal and discusses his future plans.
Richards has been with Rio Ave since the summer after joining on loan from Nottingham Forest in search of regular playing time.
He’s certainly found that as he’s made 22 appearances in all competitions to date and been a regular in Liga Portugal and the Taça de Portugal.
Things are very much going to plan on that front and he’s happy with the situation, and his apartment’s proximity to the beach in particular.
“It’s good. I feel very at home at the club, I like living in Vila do Conde, the people are very friendly. Yes, so far so good,” he said.
“For me personally, it’s about getting back into shape and playing again after being out for a long time with an injury. So that was important for me. My apartment is very close to the beach. The lifestyle is relaxing. I feel very good.”
The question, of course, is what happens to Richards when his loan deal expires at the end of the season.
He does not appear to be in Nottingham Forest’s plans moving forwards, particularly as their squad now appears to be settled and thriving after years of busy transfer dealing.
A permanent exit would make sense for the defender, particularly as his current deal with Nottingham Forest expires in June 2026. He, though, is only focused on this season and getting back to full fitness.
“My future? I don’t know. We’ll see, but I just needed this season to get back into shape and play consistently,” he added.
“Like I said, I had a bad injury. I was out for a long time. This is an important season to be able to get back to playing regularly. I think I’m doing that. I’ve started playing well and consistently. Let’s see where it takes me.”
