Nottingham Forest legend Garry Birtles has suggested that Chris Hughton should consider recalling Brennan Johnson from his loan spell at Lincoln.
The 19-year-old has been in solid form for the Imps, scoring two goals and claiming four assists.
Johnson has eight Forest appearances to his name already and he’s set to be a future star at the City Ground.
With the Reds languishing close to the relegation zone in the Championship, Hughton knows he needs something to get his team out of the rut.
Former European Cup-winning hero Birtles believes the answer is currently strutting his stuff at Lincoln.
He told the Garibaldi Red Podcast: “If they do bring him back them massive pressure comes on his shoulders.
“If he comes back it should be to play in the team and not be put on the bench.
“There’s no point bringing him back to sit on the bench. Players in form should get a chance.
“You do have to be careful with young players though, but if he does keep ripping it up then bring him back.”
Should Forest bring back Johnson in January?
Right now it seems like a no-brainer to bring him back to the club and give him a go.
Forest are struggling to link defence with attack and his presence in midfield could make him a useful addition to Hughton’s squad.
Having spent the first half of the season playing regularly it would seem as though he is getting better with each passing game.
Birtles is right when he says that if he isn’t going to play then he might as well stay with Lincoln for the rest of the season.
Forest’s midfield simply isn’t working at the moment though and a bundle of energy like Johnson could revive the team’s fortunes.
Hughton has a big decision to make.
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