Nottingham Forest star Brennan Johnson has featured in ESPN's list of most exciting players in football.
The 21-year-old has been a standout performer for Steve Cooper this season, registering nine goal contributions in 27 league appearances so far. Johnson has proven crucial for some of the Reds' results, including their wins over Leicester City, Leeds and the 2-2 draw against Everton where he scored both goals.
Although the striker took some time to get comfortable in the English top-flight after playing a key role in Forest's promotion campaign, last season. His upturn in performances have not gone unnoticed however, having been ranked 33rd in ESPN's top 39 list - higher than Liverpool star Harvey Elliott.
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"Despite a slow start to his Premier League career, the Wales international is starting to answer his critics who doubted whether he'd be able to cut it at the highest level," ESPN reports. "While he initially struggled to get to grips with higher tactical demands and better defenders in the top flight, his upturn in performances for Forest has been impressive."
Johnson's strengths were labelled as "outstanding" given his ability to run with the ball at high speed, while "thriving" in transition. "Regardless of his position wide right or as a central attacker, he prefers to drift and exploit the space between opposing centre-back and full-back," it added. "Though he is naturally right-footed, he is able to take on opponents with both feet and finish with power."
On ways to improve his game, the report suggests that "Johnson can opt for an individual move instead of taking an extra second to look for a better-placed teammate. In his enthusiasm to get things done quickly, the precision in his short passing and lay-offs also suffers."
The list is restricted to players 21-years-old or younger from seven European leagues, and is compiled after soundings from European scouts and sporting directors. The top three are, unsurprisingly, Jude Bellingham first, Pedri second and Arsenal Bukayo Saka third.
Where would you rank Johnson? Tell us in the comments section...
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