Lewis O’Brien has been left devastated after his appeal over a move from Nottingham Forest to Blackburn was rejected by the EFL. A statement was released last night and O’Brien finds himself in limbo.
The 24-year-old made 14 appearances for the Reds in the first half of the season. His form was okay when called upon and it appeared that Steve Cooper would have plans for him in a Forest shirt.
Around the time of the World Cup, disaster struck for O’Brien though and an illness saw him miss a few games. During that time other players staked their claim for a place as Forest’s form picked up considerably.
As a result, Forest sanctioned a loan exit for O’Brien during the transfer window. Sheffield United, West Brom and Blackburn were all keen with the latter appearing to win the race.
The Reds wanted any club that signed him on loan to agree to buy him for £10 million if promotion was secured. Blackburn agreed to it but then submitted the wrong paperwork to the EFL.
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A short statement last night from the EFL read: “The EFL rejected the application to register the Player on the grounds that Blackburn had failed to supply all the required information by the relevant deadline. The Board subsequently endorsed that decision.
“There is no further right of appeal. Lewis O’Brien’s registration will remain with Nottingham Forest.”
O’Brien left devastated after appeal rejected
Sympathy has to be thrown in the direction of O’Brien. He is completely blameless in all of this and ultimately he now faces a brutal six months of not playing football.
Following the news, the Forest man took to Twitter. It’s fair to say that he’s not particularly happy with the decision but has vowed to come back strong next season.
O’Brien can still play a part at Forest. It seems likely that he will still be training with the team and Forest will perhaps try and hook him up with a loan move to the MLS now.
Next season could be a big one for O’Brien. Regardless of what division Forest are playing in; he will hope to make his mark at the club and impress Cooper sufficiently for another chance.