Nottingham Forest’s Josh Bowler scored his first goal since returning to Blackpool on loan as the Seasiders clinched a last-gasp draw at home to Huddersfield Town.
Bowler rejoined Blackpool last month after spending the first half of the season at Olympiacos following his summer move to the City Ground. It’s been a dramatic first month back in the north-west for the winger, who has seen manager Michael Appleton sacked and replaced with Mick McCarthy.
The veteran boss has deployed the 23-year-old out of position in the centre of midfield in recent games. Against Huddersfield, he was dropped to the bench but made a superlative impact after coming with 20 minutes left.
READ MORE: Nottingham Forest injury update as next step up taken
READ MORE: Nottingham Forest questions answered as Cooper faces key decisions
Blackpool trailed 1-0 and were down to 10 men following Gary Madine’s red card. But Bowler, playing in his usual right-wing role, helped the Seasiders grab a precious point in their battle against relegation, scoring a 90th minute leveller to make it 2-2. Andy Lyons had earlier levelled for the home side with Josh Korma scoring what looked to be the winner to make it 2-1.
After the match, McCarthy explained the thinking behind playing Bowler in a midfield three in previous matches and said his immense ability means he should normally one of the first names on the teamsheet.
“We know he’s got that, there’s no doubt about that and I know that’s not his position in midfield,” said McCarthy, reported LancsLive.
“But I wanted to have a look at him because I’ve said to him ‘you should never be left out because of great ability, but there’s all the other things you’ve got to do as well’.
“If he does that then he gets to play for us because he’s had the hand in the goals, but there’s 10 or 11 players out there that have run their nuts off to enable him to get that. We know he’s got that ability so well done Josh, I’m delighted for him.”
Do you think Bowler will make an impact at Forest one day? Have your say in the comments below
READ NEXT
