JAMES Norwood has finally signed a new extension at Forest Green after protracted contract talks finally came to fruition.

Fans’ favourite Norwood, 22, agreed fresh terms with boss David Hockaday at the New Lawn this afternoon, Monday and is set to remain at the Blue Square Premier promotion-chasing club until the end of the 2014/15 season.

Agent speculation linked the former Exeter City speedster to League One sides Swindon, Preston and Doncaster tracking his form during the January transfer window, while Forest Green also dismissed an offer from fellow Blue Square Bet Premier side Luton Town last month.

Rovers manager David Hockaday said: "We’ve been talking to James for many months and we are delighted he’s put pen to paper and is contracted for another two-and-a half years.

"James loves it here at Forest Green and always has. It fits him well and as in any good relationship, we’re good for him and he’s good for us – plus the fans love him.

"The challenge now is for him to keep on scoring goals and help us gain promotion.

"We have a young talented group of players that are all committed to the future of Forest Green Rovers."

Norwood joined Forest Green permanently in June 2011 for his second spell with the club after a previous loan spell in the 2010-11 season.

He also spent time in his youth with Crystal Palace and Brighton & Hove Albion.

He failed to sign a professional deal with either club and as a teenager attending St Bede’s College in his native Sussex turned out for Isthmian League side Eastbourne Town where his superb goal scoring abilities captured the eye of Football League side Exeter City who snapped him up in July 2009.

He made his Exeter debut as a second half substitute on the opening day of the 2009-10 season as a 18 year- old in front of just under 30,000 fans at Leeds United’s Elland Road and then joined Sutton United in a short- term loan move.

He has also represented the England Schools under- 18s squad, scoring against France at Wembley Stadium in a 4-2 defeat.