Nottingham Forest should refrain from offloading defensive midfielder

Add as preferred source on Google

The squad at Nottingham Forest is currently bloated somewhat. Boss Aitor Karanka has drafted in 17 new recruits since last season finished and game time is not forthcoming for some players.

One man who has fallen down the pecking order given the new quota of talent is defensive midfielder Liam Bridcutt, who was signed at the start of last season by Mark Warburton.

The former Leeds man is a solid performer at Championship level and some Forest fans feel he will still have a part to play this season.

Given that he has played just one minute of league football this season, it seems natural that clubs will hold an interest in signing the proven player come January.

Although Bridcutt hasn’t featured regularly in Karanka’s squads this season, it would still represent a risk to offload him during the transfer window. For a start he would likely move to another Championship club and strengthening a rival wouldn’t be wise.

During a busy Christmas period Forest will naturally pick up injuries and suspensions. The club’s midfield isn’t exactly the youngest with Ben Watson (33), Adlene Guedioura (33) and Jack Colback (28) all featuring regularly this season.

Rotation will undoubtedly be on the horizon as the season progresses and Bridcutt will get his chances should he remain patient.

The 29-year-old has performed well when called upon in the League Cup and with Forest still in the competition that should represent another chance for the midfielder.

Bridcutt is a quality player at Championship level and he definitely has a part to play for the club during the course of a long season.