Nottingham Forest were denied a massive Championship victory following a controversial penalty in last night’s 2-2 draw with West Bromwich Albion.
Dwight Gayle tumbled in the box under no real challenge and referee Lee Mason decided to award a penalty to the hosts.
Forest supporters would have probably taken a draw prior to kick-off. Losing a hard-fought lead so late, and in such controversial fashion, will definitely taste somewhat sour for boss Martin O’Neill, however.
Midfield lynchpin Jack Colback returned to the side last night.
The on-loan Newcastle midfielder returned following a two-match suspension for 10 yellow cards.
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He didn’t disappoint and was named our Seat Pitch Star Man.
Colback looked like he’d never been away as he roared into every challenge and snapped at the heels of the West Brom midfielders all night.
The 29-year-old showed once again why Forest should be pulling out the stops to make his loan permanent.
Every team needs a Jack Colback.
Given his form at the City Ground this season it does seem surprising that he hasn’t managed to earn another crack at the Premier League.
Simplicity is the order of the day for the former Sunderland midfielder and he has looked assured all season for Forest.
Martin O’Neill is a manager who knows all about his quality having worked with him at the Black Cats; something which could put the Reds in good shape to make a permanent swoop when Colback’s contract ends in the summer.
You’d be hard pushed to name a more consistent performer this season, whilst he certainly looked to bring the best out of young Ryan Yates at The Hawthorns.
According to Who Scored, Colback has a pass success ratio of 88.2%, which is pretty good considering how many games he has featured in this season.
The Baggies couldn’t cope with the energy and work rate of the midfield duo and their presence also allowed Ben Watson to just sit and protect the back four.
Signing Colback permanently at the end of the campaign could be the best piece of business that O’Neill completes during the whole window.
He has adhered himself to the Reds supporters with his passionate and assured performances.
Colback was Forest’s standout player at West Brom and he could still have a big say in the Reds’ 2018/19 campaign.