Nottingham Forest youngster Riley Harbottle has heaped praise on former Reds defender James Perch during an interview with the Mansfield Chad.
The Reds allowed Harbottle to join the Stags on loan at the start of 2022/23. The centre-back was instrumental last season as the under-21s reached the Premier League 2 play-offs.
Harbottle has taken to life at Mansfield well. He’s recently returned from an injury issue and on Saturday he scored his fourth goal of the campaign during a 2-0 win over Tranmere.
The 22-year-old signed a new contract before heading to Mansfield on loan. As a result, he will have a year remaining on his existing deal once the 2022/23 campaign has been completed.
It would appear that he’s enjoying life at One Call Stadium. Furthermore, he’s suggested that it’s former Forest man Perch that’s keeping him grounded at the club.
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The talented Forest defender told the Mansfield Chad: “The win and clean sheet were the most important things today.
“Alfie (Kilgour) coming in has been a big lift to the group, but the main factor I think has been Perchy who has led the lads really well. He is the older head and gives advice in training.”
Harbottle heaped praise on Perch after Mansfield win
It’s quite interesting how things work out. Harbottle will know what Perch achieved at Forest and now he’s helping him forge a career in men’s football at Mansfield Town.
The talented Reds defender has been in fine form for the Stags. They’re currently in with a shout of automatic promotion after a remarkable run of four wins on the spin in League Two.
It would appear that Perch already has one eye on the future. He’s clearly been offering Harbottle some tips and that can only put him in good shape moving forward.
Now, 37, Perch made 217 appearances for the Reds during his time at Forest. He went on to become a decent player at Premier League level and Harbottle taking advice from him can do him no harm whatsoever.