Latest Nottingham Forest transfer verdict as Reds bolster Nuno Espirito Santo’s squad on deadline day.
Nottingham Forest’s deadline day signing, James Ward-Prowse, is expected to make a significant impact both on and off the pitch as the club aims to climb the Premier League table. However, there remains some uncertainty about how the West Ham loanee will be integrated into the team. Ward-Prowse brings experience and a strong ability with set-pieces to the City Ground, but it’s unclear if he will be an immediate starter.
Having a player of Ward-Prowse’s caliber as an option reflects the depth head coach Nuno Espirito Santo now has within the squad. This depth might mean the new arrival has to wait for his opportunity to break into the first team, as discussed by Max Hayes, Sarah Clapson, and Bal Bansal on NottinghamshireLive’s Garibaldi Red podcast.
Sarah Clapson remarked that finding a place for Ward-Prowse in the lineup will be interesting. His ability to contribute on set-pieces is crucial, especially with Forest’s recent focus on improving in that area by bringing in players like Ward-Prowse and Nikola Milenkovic. However, fitting all these new players into the team poses a challenge. She added that Ward-Prowse’s experience and positive personality in the dressing room could greatly benefit the team.
Max Hayes also raised the point that Forest’s midfield depth creates a dilemma for integrating Ward-Prowse. With Danilo out for several months due to injury, there is a need to decide how best to utilize Ward-Prowse without disrupting a working setup. He noted the balance between maintaining team chemistry and capitalizing on Ward-Prowse’s skills.
Bal Bansal echoed these sentiments, acknowledging the “good headache” of having multiple quality players. He expressed his anticipation for Ward-Prowse’s impact on the team, highlighting his value both on and off the field.
Forest’s strength in depth is not limited to the midfield. Nuno has strengthened the wings with the addition of Jota Silva and Ramon Sosa, who will compete with Callum Hudson-Odoi and Anthony Elanga for starting positions. Max Hayes pointed out that the team now has genuine quality off the bench, something that was missing last season. This depth allows Forest to have more flexibility in changing games and scoring late goals.
Clapson further added that the additions of Jota and Sosa could be valuable assets for Forest, not just on the wings but potentially up front as well. While adapting to English football might take some time, their energy, aggressiveness, and willingness to make an impact could make them key players for the club moving forward.
Leave a Reply