Despite a contract offer to stay at Fulham FC, Reggae Boyz Vice-Captain Bobby De Cordova-Reid says he was convinced that signing for newly promoted English Premier League (EPL) club Leicester City was the right decision for his career.

The 31-year-old spent the last six years at Fulham, where he made 209 appearances and registered 32 goals and 18 assists.

However, Reid’s contract expired at the end of June and he was in discussions over a new deal with the London club who finished 13th in the league last season. However, talks broke down over a proposed two-year deal.

Reid flew into the United Kingdom last week from the USA following Jamaica’s campaign at the 2024 Copa America and signed with Leicester, who returned to the EPL after winning the English Football League Championship last season.

Reid says his mind was made up about the former EPL champions after discussions with Manager Steve Cooper.

“I’m obviously pleased to be here, I had a good chat with the manager and he told me the vision of the club and sold it for me. I spoke to him a few times, he was very clear in what he wanted and what he sees in me and it’s a perfect fit for me, so I’m delighted to be here and can’t wait to get going,” he said.

Reid has four stints in the EPL, three with Fulham and one with Cardiff City, with close to 130 appearances, and he believes his track record will be a well-needed addition to the squad.

“I want to bring experience, I got energy, I’m a goalscorer and playmaker so hopefully I can bring all those things and make the squad better. I pride myself on those types of things and helping the team, whether that’s being a leader in the dressing room, being an experienced player to the younger ones, or just being an all round good person, I think that’s key. I think it follows me with my age, but I’ll take that mantle on and looking to get going and keep this club in the Premier League,” he said.

All three clubs who gained promotion to the EPL last season were relegated, but Reid, who has seen demotion twice in his career, says this squad can defy those odds.

“We got to stick together as a squad. There’s going to be times where there’s ups and downs and [we have to] understand that the downs won’t last that long if you continue to do the right things, be consistent in what you’re doing, and follow the manager’s way of playing,” Reid said.

“It’s going to be a very interesting season, it’s a team full of winners, who obviously won the championship with players who have already been in the Premier League, so we’re going to be fighting and the fans know that. I’ll give my all for the club and hopefully bring some smiles to their faces.”

Reid is expected to begin preseason with Leicester in the coming days, with friendly internationals set to be played in England, France, and Germany.

They open their EPL campaign at home against Tottenham on August 19, before visiting Reid’s former club Fulham on August 24.