Jack Hobbs says being told he was no longer a part of Hull City's plans "was hard to take".
The 24-year-old defender - an important member of the Tigers' promotion-winning squad - has agreed to return to the Championship with Nottingham Forest.
And Hobbs says he is excited at the prospect of challenging for a second successive promotion.
He told BBC East Midlands: "I got told I was no longer in [Hull City's] plans which was hard to take."
"I am itching to test myself at the highest level and am confident I can achieve that with Forest.
"I am excited to be here. The aim is promotion this season."
The former Liverpool centre-back has joined Forest on an initial season-long loan, but has also agreed a permanent two-year contract from next summer which will keep him in the East Midlands until 2016.
Hobbs joined the Tigers from Leicester in July 2011 after a successful loan spell.
He captained City in the 2011-12 season, when he formed a fine partnership with James Chester.
Reds boss Billy Davies has described Hobbs as one of the "brightest prospects" outside the Premier League.
• Billy Davies: Hobbs is one of brightest prospects
