Nottingham Forest have confirmed that Zach Clough has left the club, joining Rochdale on a loan deal until January.

The forward joined the Reds 18 months ago from Bolton and was regarded as one of the most exciting prospects outside the top-flight after some fine moments with the Trotters.

However, things haven't gone to plan for the 23-year old at the City Ground since. Clough has made just 27 appearances since joining, managing only four goals in that time.

He particularly fell out of favour once Aitor Karanka took over at the start of 2018 and was loaned to former club Bolton for the remainder of the previous campaign.

Clough struggled to establish himself in Phil Parkinson's side though and a big summer spending spree at Forest pushed him way down the pecking order.

Karanka splashed out on several attack-minded players, meaning he hasn't made a matchday squad for the East Midlands side this season.

Therefore, the Spaniard sanctioned a move for Clough to join Dale, with the Reds confirming on their website that he will link up with the League One side until January.

The Verdict

This was a very surprising move given the reputation that Clough had over the past few years.

Yet, when you look at it, it's a move that makes sense. He will get no game time at Forest now, whereas at Rochdale he should be the key man.

Playing regularly for the next few months could do his confidence wonders and he will aim to return a much-improved player, which could earn him a Championship move in the next window.

Thoughts? Let us know in the comments below.

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