Steve McClaren has said that he is up to the challenge of taking Nottingham Forest to the Premiership.

The former England boss, who agreed a three-year deal with Forest on Monday, described his enthusiasm for the task at a press conference this morning.

“I wanted a new challenge in this country, a big challenge,” he said. “I wouldn’t be sat here if I didn’t think I was the man to fulfil everybody’s dream of playing the Premier League. That is the ultimate goal.

“I want to make Forest a sustainable club, a sustainable success, and develop the academy.”

McClaren claimed that supporters should not doubt his capabilities, citing his success with Middlesbrough and FC Twente. Doubts as to his suitability had been raised due to his failure to lead England to qualify for Euro 2008.

“I was successful before England and after, so I don’t have to answer to anyone,” he said. “But that’s football isn’t it? You learn from those experiences and your philosophy always develops.

“Going abroad has made me a better coach and now I look forward to bringing those experiences and what I have learned here to Nottingham Forest. A small number of people will concentrate on the England thing and maybe view me in a bad light, but I think the majority of people will be, and have been, supportive.”