The Nottingham Forest Academy was showcased brilliantly in the Premier League International Cup triumph, with one star in particular on the radar for Nuno Espirito Santo.
The Forest manager hasn’t been shy when it comes to giving youngsters opportunities, as showcased by Zach Abbott’s start in the FA Cup semi-final.
Espirito Santo hailed Abbott’s display, even if the result didn’t go Forest’s way, the 18-year-old then cemented his reputation as Abbott scored the winning penalty in Wednesday’s cup win.
However, the defender wasn’t the standout performer at the City Ground in the cup final, with one gem surely now at the forefront of Espirito Santo’s mind.
George Murray-Jones shines in Premier League Cup victory
The goalkeeper spot is fairly set at Forest right now, with Matz Sels one of the stars of the Premier League this season, but youngster George Murray-Jones showed potential to reach those levels on Wednesday night.
Even before the penalty shootout, Murray-Jones was called into action to keep the talented Lyon side at bay, who had chances to snatch victory, even though Forest had the majority of the goal-scoring opportunities.
As the shootout arrived, though, Murray-Jones stepped up to the plate, saving two spot-kicks to help his side lift the trophy.
At 20 years old, the keeper is one of the more experienced members of the academy squad, with his breakthrough into football notoriety coming all the way back in 2019.
George Murray-Jones already has England pedigree
Forest signed Murray-Jones back in 2024 from Manchester City, but he didn’t come through the ranks at the Cityzens, who originally poached him from Southend United.
Whilst at Southend, the shot-stopper was honoured with an England call-up, representing the Under-16s age group.
The Shrimpers evidently recognised his talents, as academy manager Ricky Duncan spoke to the Southend Echo about Murray-Jones.
Duncan said: “I remember the under-23s were short of a goalkeeper, so we sent George over and after training, Kevin Maher came over and said the under-16 goalkeeper had done well.
“He couldn’t believe it when I told him he was only 13 but he’s one we’ve already given a scholarship to.
“He has the respect of everyone here because of the way he conducts himself and he’s another excellent young goalkeeper we’re bringing through, which is credit to all the coaches working with them.”
Sooner or later, Forest fans can expect to see Murray-Jones amongst the first team, looking to repeat the heroics of Wednesday night.
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