It’s over a year since Fin Back signed his first professional contract at Nottingham Forest and on Saturday he enjoyed a dream return to action.
The son of Rugby World Cup-winning star, Neil, made his comeback in an under-18 contest against Cardiff City at the Nigel Doughty Academy.
Forest won 6-2 and Back, lining up in central midfield scored a devastating hat-trick to put the Bluebirds to the sword.
The Reds won in comprehensive fashion thanks to Back’s trio of goals, Dale Taylor, Jack Perkins and James Clarridge.
Back certainly offers an interesting situation for Forest, with the youngster providing something which the first-team desperately needs.
Chris Hughton has a squad boasting some undoubtedly talented players but a natural number eight is something which is lacking.
Forest’s attacking outlets have been isolated in some games this season and having a natural option in the eight role would help combat that.
Calling Back up to the first-team certainly isn’t something which will be on the horizon in the short-term.
He does, however, offer some food for thought for the future.
Quality
Back is a versatile performer and has played in a number of positions in the Reds’ development ranks.
Central midfield does look like being a position he can thrive in moving forward, however, and his performance on Saturday was a joy to behold.
Not only did he score three superb goals but his work rate was a joy to behold and his energy constantly got Forest higher up the pitch.
The challenge for Back now is to earn a consistent run in the team and put his six-month injury nightmare behind him.
A three-goal haul is a stunning start on his return and as he gets stronger he will continue to improve.
Forest have placed their faith in Back by handing the 18-year-old a professional deal – and he’s clearly rated by the people behind the scenes at the City Ground.
If he continues in the form he showed on Saturday, it might not be long before he’s catching the eye of Hughton too.