Ben Osborn is intending to stick around at Nottingham Forest.
That news is likely to draw a mixed response.
The Reds’ archetypal ‘Marmite Man’ seems to infuriate as many fans as he impresses.
A versatile operator, his value as a squad member is recognised by some.
Others point to the fact that no set position and no obvious role makes him a jack of all trades, master of none.
Said critics would happily open an exit door.
Osborn is not about to tread that path, though.
He has said in the Nottingham Post: “I have never thought about anything like that [wanting to leave in search of more regular football]
Promotion
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“You have to think about getting into the team, first and foremost.
“Everyone wants to get promotion with Forest. That is what the aim is. I want to be part of that; that is the goal.”
Osborn has figured in 21 of Forest’s 26 Championship fixtures this season.
He has, however, started just 12.
“It is my first season where I have not been playing as much as I have done previously. It is difficult,” added the 24-year-old.
“In games when I have come out of the side, the lads have done well, particularly the ones who have come into my position.
“But now I hope to put a run of games together and try to cement my place.”
‘My position’, there is that issue again.
An attacking left-sided midfield berth appears to be the one that Aitor Karanka has earmarked for Osborn.
Captain
He filled that role away at Derby, as captain no less, and impressed in it again when stepping off the bench against Leeds.
His contribution in that contest cannot be questioned – even by his biggest detractors.
It may be, though, that he found his true calling in a 4-2 win he helped to inspire.
And that position is on the bench.
As the Reds’ Swiss Army Knife – capable of doing most jobs to a certain standard – he is arguably at his most effective when providing cover.
He showed against Leeds that he can make an impact, and will get more chances over the coming weeks.
Rumours of a possible move elsewhere with the January window open have been shot down and his commitment to the cause is admirable.
Osborn is, however, only under contract until 2020 and a decision will need to be made soon on whether to open extension or exit talks.