Englishman could stay at Nottingham Forest in January, will go next summer- opinion

Despite Ben Watson losing his place in the Nottingham Forest side and being tipped for a departure in January, there is a chance he could stay at the City Ground. Watson had been short of form which led to Aitor Karanka dropping him from the matchday squad, but there’s still a place for him.

The 33-year-old returned to the bench against Norwich City on Boxing Day – the second time he made the squad in the Reds’ last three games. He was an unused substitute in the 3-3 draw at Carrow Road, but his selection shows he’s still somewhat in favour.

Liam Bridcutt can’t even make the squad this season and has been linked with a move to Ipswich Town. It’s hard to see Karanka standing in his way, but Watson may not follow him through the exit door next month. Forest have Claudio Yacob and Jack Colback but Adlene Guedioura is declining.

The latter’s form has been suspect at times this season and he’s found himself out of the starting lineup as a result. Forest will need Watson as backup in midfield, so he may be retained until the campaign comes to a close.

His contract doesn’t expire for a year-and-a-half, but it’s more likely that he’ll stay for just six months before the Reds look to move him on as the summer transfer window gives Forest more time to rebuild the squad. Mid-season transfers are hard to get over the line and can be disruptive.

Crippy Cooke’s previous article