Will Nottingham Forest hold onto James Thorne?
Nottingham Forest drew a blank last night against Leeds United, losing the Championship game 2-0.
One bright spot was the debut of talented youngster Ben Brereton, with the club’s academy showing it keeps on producing quality players – if only Forest could hold onto them.
Another starlet they are at risk of losing – this time for nothing – is 21-year-old striker James Thorne.
City Ground
Thorne’s contract expires in June and HITC Sport understands talks are yet to begin about an extension, although Thorne is hopeful of earning a new deal.
There have been enquiries for Thorne from Championship sides, but Thorne’s desire is to remain at Forest.
The striker made his debut for the club back in August, starting in the 2-1 win over Millwall, but has been sidelined since with a thigh injury, missing four months of action.
Nottingham Forest caretaker manager Gary Brazil
Thorne has now returned to full fitness and started in Forest’s under-23 win earlier this week over Brighton and Hove Albion.
He was evidently on the radar of former boss Phillippe Montanier, but caretaker manager Gary Brazil showed this week he is ready to throw in academy talent if he feels they are ready.
With a new contract to earn, Thorne will be pushing at his end to show that he deserves an opportunity, and Forest could make a mistake in letting the former Manchester City starlet walk away for nothing.
Relegation to League One is a real possibility for Forest at present, which would see the exit inevitably of star striker Britt Assombalonga, and a few others.
Keeping hold of Thorne would be then even more important, but with Forest in a state of flux off the field, it is uncertain whether they have the foresight to do so.
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