Call Me ‘Mr. Versatile’

James Perch today pledged to continue his role as Nottingham Forest’s Mr Versatile.

The Notts-born 21-year-old is one of only two outfield players to have featured in every game so far this season, along with skipper Ian Breckin.

But while he has started all 12 games in League One – he has already played in five positions.

Perch netted his first goal of the campaign, to provide the vital equaliser in the win over Swansea on Saturday, playing at left back.

But the product of the City Ground youth academy has also featured as a central defender, a right-back, a central midfielder and a wing-back.

And while he admits his long-term goal is to shine in one regular position, he is happy to continue his roaming role.

‘I have played every game so far, which is a bonus,’ said Perch, whose versatility was not enough to prevent him being a fringe player at times under Gary Megson.

‘I did say at the end of last season that I would like to have one settled position and I guess I still would.

‘But, in all honesty, I am not going to complain at all, as long as I am in the team every week.’

Perch admits he is not certain what his best position is – but enjoys playing in the centre of midfield.

‘In the long run, hopefully, I can earn myself a regular place in one position,’ he said.

Perch revealed that some extra practice on the training ground had been rewarded with his goal on Saturday – and said his strike may spare him a ribbing from team mates.

‘The lads always take the mickey out of me because my shots normally go over the bar,’ said Perch. ‘I am not afraid to have a go, I suppose.’

NEP.