Although first team matters may be frustrating for Nottingham Forest fans currently, there are positives to be taken from the excellent displays of some of the academy players.
It’s been a proud few weeks for the Forest Academy after Zach Abbott received a surprise chance against Man City in the FA Cup semi-final.
Although their side lost, Forest fans were delighted with Abbott’s display at Wembley, adding a moment of pride to a day that was disappointing overall.
Even Nuno Espirito Santo was impressed by Abbott as hopes grow for his future in the first team fold. He’s not the only gem, though, as two Forest youngsters have just won prestigious awards while away on loan.
Dale Taylor secures double-swoop at Wigan Athletic awards night
Enjoying a productive loan in Lancashire, now former Wigan boss Shaun Maloney admitted he wanted to sign Dale Taylor, who has been a real hit for the Latics.
| Appearances | Goals | Assists | |
| Dale Taylor | 46 | 10 | 7 |
Local media have also hailed Taylor, who has been rewarded for his goal-scoring exploits by winning the club’s Player of the Year award.
If that wasn’t praise enough, though, Taylor was also recognised by his Wigan teammates, winning the Player’s Player of the Year award to add to his collection.
Taylor had won Wigan’s Player of the Month award for four consecutive months, so it’s perhaps not a surprise to see him picking up these accolades, but he wasn’t the only Forest youngster celebrating.
Jamie McDonnell wins award for Colchester United loan
Going more under the radar than the goals of Taylor, midfielder Jamie McDonnell has also been amongst the awards, taking home Colchester United’s Young Player of the Year prize.
Playing defensive midfield for a Colchester side who still have a chance of making the playoffs on the final day of the season, McDonnell has been a rock defensively, winning 12.1 duels per game alongside 2.86 completed tackles.
He’s also received huge praise from his manager, Danny Cowley, who predicted a bright future in the game for the Forest talent back in March when speaking to the Colchester Gazette.
Cowley said: “I’ve watched him all season and I understand it’s League Two, but he’ll play at least the Championship if not above that.
“[…] Northern Ireland must have some really, really good central midfielders, if he’s not in the senior squad.”
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