Costel Pantilimon says he would like to remain at Nottingham Forest next season after enjoying a productive loan spell with the Championship outfit.

A deadline day move saw Pantilimon depart Watford for Forest in January and he has gone on to become an integral part of Aitor Karanka’s side.

He has struggled to make an impact since joining Watford in 2016 and says the chance to continue at Forest is one which he would take with both hands.

“I like the spirit of the club, I like the history and I like the team,” he told the Forest programme. “I have very good teammates and the staff are good as well.

“I hope that I will be here next season and that I can help the team as much as possible for the aims that we have.

“I really like what is happening here.”

Pantilimon’s admiration of Forest, who he helped to a 2-1 win over Ipswich Town on Saturday, is mirrored by his manager’s appraisal of the Romanian international.

The Forest boss has previously stated his desire to retain the 31-year-old’s services beyond the completion of his loan and Pantilimon says he has enjoyed working with Karanka.

“My heart is open to continuing at this club and to work with the manager because I have a good relationship with him and I like the way he is treating the players,” he said.

“I also like the style of football and what I can say is that it is a pleasure for me to work with him, with his staff and all my teammates here.

“He is a very passionate manager and he wants the best for everyone. For me, it is a pleasure to work with him and I hope we can have a long history together at the club.

“I am not thinking too much at this moment [about the future]. I am just focused on what we have to do and on my job especially.”