Joe Lolley has been short of form in 2019, scoring only one goal since November and failing to make an assist since Boxing Day. Forest have suffered too, winning only two Championship outings since early-December, but the key to the Reds turning things round may lie in improving performances from individuals.
It’s perhaps no coincidence that the 26-year-old’s form fell off a cliff amid rumours of a potential exit, with Lolley linked with a move to Watford, Aston Villa, Cardiff City and West Bromwich Albion, but Martin O’Neill may have fixed the problem by getting him to sign a contract extension.
Lolley enjoyed a bright start to the season, scoring and creating 12 goals in his first 19 Championship appearances, but he’s struggled from December onwards – coinciding with the media speculation being ramped up. But now O’Neill has tied the wide-man to a new deal, he may be able to focus on Forest.
The Midlands outfit welcome Brentford to the City Ground on Saturday afternoon and could go within two points of the playoffs if results go their way over the weekend. O’Neill will be hoping Lolley can be the man to fire Forest back into form.
Crippy Cooke’s previous article
Opinion: Martin O’Neill should drop out-of-form player for Nottingham Forest signing
