Lewis Grabban and Wes Morgan have made a significant return to Nottingham Forest, stepping into pivotal roles within the club’s academy. Both individuals have a rich history with the club, with Grabban being a striker known for his promotion-winning contributions and Morgan being a beloved defender who began his professional journey at Forest.
The club’s management has appointed these former players with the aim of nurturing the next generation of talent. Their firsthand experiences of progressing through the ranks to reach the first team position are invaluable, as they can relate to the challenges and aspirations faced by young players. Nottingham Forest believes that having former players in these roles will greatly enhance the development process for the academy players.
In addition to Grabban and Morgan, the academy staff already includes Julian Bennett, another ex-defender, and Andy Reid, who is regarded as one of the finest talents to emerge from the Forest youth system. This combination of experienced former players is expected to create a supportive environment that fosters growth and development among the academy’s young athletes.
Craig Mulholland, who oversees football development and talent management at Nottingham Forest, emphasized the importance of having former players involved in the academy. He stated that their understanding of the elite level that young players aspire to reach is a significant asset. Furthermore, these former players possess a deep knowledge of the club’s history and culture, which they can impart to the youth, enriching their connection to Nottingham Forest.
This initiative reflects Nottingham Forest’s commitment to developing homegrown talent, ensuring that the legacy of the club continues through the next generation of players. By integrating former players into the coaching framework, the club aims to create a pathway that not only prepares young athletes for the demands of professional football but also instills in them the values and traditions that define Nottingham Forest.
Wes Morgan, a Nottingham native who accumulated over 400 appearances during his decade-long tenure with Nottingham Forest, is set to assume a scouting position within the club. In this role, he will be responsible for identifying young talent as part of a newly established recruitment team focused on emerging players.
Morgan expressed his deep connection to the club, stating, “I have a big affinity for the club. I’m looking forward to helping identify emerging talent.” After his time at Forest, he achieved notable success by winning the Premier League title with Leicester City, a journey he began after joining the team in 2012.
He highlighted the club’s commitment to consistently nurturing players from the academy, who then go on to have fruitful careers with the first team. Morgan emphasized the importance of continuing this tradition, affirming, “It’s our job to ensure that trend continues.”
Lewis Grabban has rejoined Nottingham Forest as a coach focused on professional development, specifically working with the under-18 team under the guidance of Warren Joyce, as well as with the club’s B team. During his four years at the City Ground, Grabban scored 56 goals, culminating in a promotion through the Championship play-offs in 2022.
Expressing his enthusiasm about returning, Grabban stated, “I’m so pleased to be back at a club that gave me so many great memories as a player. I am looking forward to working alongside some great coaches and using my experience to help our young players develop. We have some really exciting talent.”
Andy Reid, who had nearly 300 appearances for Forest across two stints, previously served on the first team coaching staff under Steve Cooper. He has now transitioned to a role as a transition coach within the academy, where he combines coaching responsibilities with scouting duties.
Julian Bennett, who came back to Forest in 2020, focuses on working with younger players in the foundation phase of the academy.
Additionally, midfielder Ryan Yates, who recently signed a new four-year contract, continues the club’s tradition of including at least one academy graduate in the first team squad.
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