Why writing off Nottingham Forest trio would be…

Why writing off Nottingham Forest trio would be foolish as they aim to prove critics wrong

There is no disputing it has been a tricky start for Nottingham Forest on their return to the Premier League.

Second half collapses against Bournemouth and Fulham are a particular concern. And the Reds find themselves second-bottom in the table after seven games, heading to Leicester City next Monday night needing to stop a run of four straight defeats.

The challenges head coach Steve Cooper faces of getting a new-look team to gel have been well documented. Meanwhile, there has been plenty of debate about what Forest’s strongest starting line-up looks like.

A number of players have come in for criticism on the back of below-par performances. Chief among them have been academy graduates Joe Worrall, Ryan Yates and Brennan Johnson.

But writing those three off so early in the campaign would be foolish. All are more than capable of making the step up and will have significant parts to play this term.

Home-grown players can be an easy target when it comes to being on the receiving end of social media stick. Ben Osborn used to be the favoured fall guy for some; perhaps only being appreciated for what he brought to the table after he had left.

It seems as though Worrall, Yates and Johnson have taken his place, in that regard. Yates has experienced similar before, but for his teammates it is new territory.

As is the Premier League. Like many in the squad, the trio are adjusting to the higher level. As a team, and in many cases as individuals, Forest are still finding their feet.

Yates has plenty of competition for a place in midfield. Technically, the likes of Lewis O’Brien, Remo Freuler and Orel Mangala may have the edge. On current form, there is an argument for picking those three in a three-man midfield when Mangala is fit.

But even if that is the case, Yates has it in him to win his spot back. Focused, driven and with an insatiable appetite to learn, Cooper has spoken before about how the 24-year-old constantly wants to review his own performances with clips from the analysts. He offers different attributes in the centre of the pitch, too.

Worrall has had some tough moments at the back, up against some top strikers in the first few games. He is not the only one in the squad to whom that applies.

The Reds looked better when he came on against Fulham, however. And he stood out in the defeat to Tottenham Hotspur. He also tries to be progressive with the ball and has the ability to pick a pass.

Johnson has yet to really get going this term, but has nevertheless claimed two goals and has still had positive moments. Equally, Cooper has not yet found a way to get the best out of the attacking talent at his disposal; as a team, Forest have sometimes lacked cohesion going forward.

He is a terrific talent, though. That hasn’t changed. Once he hits his stride, he can have a huge influence - as he showed while on duty with Wales.

Forest need the likes of Yates, Johnson and Worrall in the squad. They are vital, not just for what they can offer on the pitch, but also the role they play off it. With those three in the dressing room, none of the summer signings will be left in any doubt about what it means to represent the club.

Football has no room for sentiment; Cooper will have to make ruthless decisions as the campaign goes on. But it shouldn’t be underestimated just how big a role the three players who have come in for the most flak can play.

How should Forest line up against Leicester? Have your say in the comments below

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