Robert Earnshaw returns to Cardiff

Earnshaw leaves Forest on a free transfer (GETTY)

Striker Robert Earnshaw has rejoined Cardiff on a free transfer from Nottingham Forest.

Wales international Earnshaw opted to leave the City Ground after rejecting the offer of a new deal with Steve McClaren's side.

The 30-year-old is a fans' favourite with the Bluebirds faithful after scoring 105 goals in 205 appearances during his first spell at the club.

Earnshaw signed professional terms with his boyhood club back in 1997 and stayed for seven years before a big-money move to West Brom.

He then went on to play for Norwich, Derby and Forest before deciding to return to the Welsh capital and becoming Malky Mackay's fourth summer signing.