Derry City striker Tim Nilsen can't wait to get back playing at 'magical' Brandywell Stadium

The Norwegian knew there would be no place quite like home when he became aware of how seriously the coronavirus pandemic would impact peoples’ lives as it began to sweep through Europe last month.

Before Ireland went into lockdown, the 27 year-old quickly packed up his bags and flew back to his family home in the scenic city of Bergen - ‘the city between the seven mountains’ where he began an enforced two-week period of quarantine once he stepped off his plane.

And while football is quite rightly far down the list of priorities amidst one of the biggest ever public health crises, Nilsen hopes he can eventually get back to show Derry City fans what he’s all about as soon as possible.

“Of course, I was annoyed as surely everyone else in the league was when it (coronavirus) caused the league to shut down but now reflecting back on it now, it was right to shut down the entire league at that time.

“Yes, I thought it was a bit harsh at first when very few people knew anything about this virus then I saw that most of Norway was shut down and more and more flights were being cancelled. Everyone who came from abroad and home to Norway had to go straight for two weeks’ quarantine.

“But when you first go into lockdown, not much is better than home.”

The former Fredrikstad striker, who was admittedly frustrated not to get his Derry career off the mark during the opening four games of the season, has thoroughly enjoyed his time in the League of Ireland so far and is determined to find the back of the net when the season eventually kicks back into gear.

“It’s never fun to miss matches when that’s all we train for. I would say that it was very unfortunate for me who has not scored in an official match for Derry City yet, but on another side I now get to train hard and get myself 100 per cent in shape. Maybe it can help me find my form as well.”

The FAI has set a provisional date of June 19th for the resumption of the Premier Division but Nilsen admits it appears a distant dream at present.

“I’m not really thinking about what’s going on with the League right now due to the pandemic but I just hope we get to play football again soon because I miss it.

“I’ve enjoyed it very well along with the team. I have come into the group well and the group has received me very well. I haven’t gotten to know much about League of Ireland yet, but I’ve got some small impressions of the league so far. Everyone can beat everyone.

“I am so excited to be back in Derry and to score at the magical Brandywell Stadium. I know the goals will come if I just work hard enough.”

Fears that Derry could miss out on the Europa League this season are so far unfounded as UEFA have yet to make a decision on whether or not to scrap one or two of the opening qualifier rounds.

And that scenario would be a huge disappointment for the experienced front man who has yet to play in the competition.

“For myself, I hope we get to play the Europa League qualifier,” he said. “I’ve never played it and am really looking forward to playing European football. But whether it be in June or August I don’t care.”