The Reds have had a turbulent ride so far, but there have been silver linings.
Nottingham Forest’s Ben Osborn celebrates their first goal
It would be fair to say that this season – so far, at least – isn’t going to be one remembered fondly by Nottingham Forest fans.
The turmoil off the pitch has led to fan protests against owner Fawaz Al Hasawi, while on it, the club have flirted from afar with Championship relegation.
That said, it hasn’t all been bad. Here are five players who have excelled this season at The City Ground.
Ben Osborn
If the 22-year-old midfielder doesn’t win the club’s Player of the Season award, there’s no justice in football. Osborn has had an outstanding season on Trentside – to date, he has started every league game – and continues to grow from strength to strength.
A dynamic presence in midfield, this season has proved that there is no doubt Osborn will play Premier League football – with or without Forest.
Nottingham Forest’s Matty Cash
Matty Cash
The academy graduate only made his debut this season, but has already established himself as an important member of the first team. Cash’s energy and drive have been big assets for Forest, and while he’s nowhere near the finished article, he has all the attributes to go to the top.
It’s little wonder Chelsea and RB Leipzig are rumoured to be keen admirers of his services.
Dani Pinillos
Forest desperately missed the 24-year-old Spaniard in the first third of the season, but since Pinillos’ return from injury, he’s shown exactly why he’s arguably the best left back in the Championship with a string of exemplary performances.
In an alarming lack of foresight by the club, Pinillos’ contract is up in the summer. If Forest are to progress in this league, they need to tie him down to a longer deal.
Nottingham Forest’s David Vaughan (L) and Eric Lichaj (R) in action with Preston North End’s Daniel Johnson
David Vaughan
The man who saw the iceberg the Titanic hit, before the ship even left the port. Vaughan’s vision and reading of the game have been pivotal in keeping Forest out the bottom three, while he’s also been the glue trying to hold everything in place.
His superb form has also seen him become a bit of a social media sensation amongst Reds fans in recent weeks.
Britt Assombalonga
Nine goals in 18 games (at time of writing) for a team that’s largely struggled to provide service to their forwards is testament to just how good a player Assombalonga is. I have absolutely no doubts that if he was at a better team, he would be pushing 30 goals at this level, such is his quality.
If the 24-year-old isn’t plying his trade in the Premier League within three years, I’ll be amazed.
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