Nottingham Forest youngster Riley Harbottle has sent an emotional message to Mansfield Town fans at the end of his loan spell.
The Stags saw the curtain come down on their 2022/23 campaign on Monday afternoon, despite a 2-0 win at Colchester.
Nigel Clough’s team needed another goal to pip Salford to the final play-off place in League Two and now their season is over.
Harbottle actually scored in the win on Monday and it was the sixth time he’s found the net for the Stags during the course of the season.
The 22-year-old has now got a full campaign of men’s football under his belt and he’s done well during his time with the Stags.
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Harbottle has made 35 appearances for the Nottinghamshire outfit and he will now head back to Forest ready for next season.
The youngster has made two appearances for the senior ranks at Forest with both of those coming in the Carabao Cup.
Now, it remains to be seen what is on the horizon for Harbottle with a single year remaining on his existing contract at the City Ground.
At 22, his chance to shine at Forest might have gone but that could depend on what division Forest are playing in next season.
Forest gem Harbottle has sent emotional message to Mansfield fans and David Johnson reacts
The father of Brennan Johnson has followed Harbottle’s career closely; with the defender having risen through the ranks with his son.
Now, he’s sent him a message of support on Instagram following Harbottle’s emotional post to the Mansfield fans.
The man who played for Forest some years ago said: “Well done Riley. Onwards and upwards.”
Harbottle will now enjoy a long rest before reporting back to Forest for pre-season training in the summer.
He has a single year to run on his deal. Now could be the time, however, for him to look elsewhere in search of regular first-team football.