ZACH Clough is desperate to make the most of his Wanderers homecoming.

After sealing a loan move back to his beloved Whites on deadline day from Nottingham Forest, the 22-year-old was given a standing ovation making his ‘second debut’ against Bristol City.

Clough admits the timing of his return caught him by surprise; just last week he had been speaking about relaunching his career at the City Ground under new boss Aitor Karanka.

But now back on familiar turf he is looking to make a serious impact and help keep Wanderers in the Championship.

“I always wanted to come back but I didn’t think it would be so soon,” said Clough. “But it’s a good time. We’ve got a real fight on our hands.

“It’s perfect for me. I want to fight for this club. I have been here since I was eight years old. It’s great to be back.”

Clough’s move came about after Crystal Palace put the stops on Chung-Yong Lee’s loan move, racing through just a couple of hours before last week’s deadline.

Now, with Phil Parkinson looking to remodel his attack following the sale of Gary Madine to Cardiff, Clough and his Forest team-mate Tyler Walker could play a major role in the survival battle, which continues against Fulham on Saturday.

“Tyler’s a great player, I get on with him and I’m sure he’ll do well,” Clough added. “I know all the people behind the scenes, the staff, the fans. It’s weird being back so soon, but at the same time it’s really exciting.”

It is understood Clough’s comeback is only agreed until the end of the season, and there is no deal yet in place to make his loan move permanent. But with the scenery fast-changing at Forest, the youngster will be aware every move he makes at Bolton will be watched closely.

Phil Parkinson believes the deal can benefit Clough’s career in the long run.

“He has got a real passion for Bolton Wanderers Football Club and that counts for a lot,” he said.

“I only worked with him for the first half of last season before we sold him to Forest but he’s a talented lad and we’re looking forward to getting Zach going again because he’s stagnated a little bit in his time at Forest.”