As quoted by The Scottish Sun, Alan Stubbs has dealt a blow to Nottingham Forest in saying that John McGinn could play for better sides than the Reds.

The former Hibernian manager knows McGinn well from their time together at Easter Road and, though Stubbs has now left the club, it is reported that they still stay close. Indeed, it seems as though Stubbs has been influential in keeping McGinn with the Hibees and Forest seem to have their work cut out in getting him.

Certainly, it was clear that they wanted in the summer and it remains to be seen if they go again in January but Stubbs has looked to scupper any such move. Indeed, in a bit of a swipe at the City Ground outfit Stubbs has said McGinn should wait for a 'better' move.

He said:

“I spoke to John when there was a bit of interest from Forest and I told him not to go because I think he will get a better move than that.

“He has got a great opportunity.

“Forest are a really good club but I think the way he is playing, if there is only one option from Forest in the window, come the next one, there will be a lot more.”

Certainly, with Forest mid-table in the Championship there might be other sides more upwardly mobile at the moment but to simply snub them for that reason would be wrong. McGinn also needs to consider the good going on at Forest at the moment with plenty of young players doing well there, and a project more exciting with many as they try to get themselves back to where they should really be - the top flight.

The Verdict

Where Stubbs has in mind for McGinn is up for debate but Forest do have plenty going for them and a move to them wouldn't be that disastrous.

A top-six place might be a tall order this season but there's few teams with more potential in the Championship and if they can show enough signs of progress why wouldn't McGinn go there?

Thoughts, Reds? Let us know below!