There have been plenty of players to choose from with an abundance of young talent at the City Ground.
Nottingham Forest’s Stephen Henderson celebrates his sides second goal scored by Ben Brereton (not pictured)
In the dark times that Nottingham Forest find themselves in, with the Reds just a point above the Championship relegation zone going into the final stretch of the season, fans can take comfort from their superb youth system.
Ben Osborn, Joe Worrall, Matty Cash, Jordan Smith and Ben Brereton are all first-team regulars at this moment in time, and all of them graduated from the club’s academy.
Up until mid-January, this award would have been heavily contested between Cash and Worrall, but since then, things have changed meaning that it can only go to one player – Ben Brereton.
The 17-year-old striker has performed well beyond his years for the Reds since making his league debut against Leeds United on 25 January and has now scored three goals in 10 games.
Strong, quick, good in the air – as demonstrated by his header against Fulham – and knowing when to time his runs – as shown against Brentford – it seems Brereton has all the attributes to be a complete forward.
Given Forest’s track record for selling youngsters under owner Fawaz Al Hasawi, it is unlikely Brereton will remain at the City Ground beyond the season.
But at least he has given the fans memories; such as his 92nd-minute volleyed winner against Aston Villa in front of the Trent End.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
