Former Nottingham Forest player Kenny Burns claims that supposed Reds target Callum O'Dowda wants to join the club after his comments praising Martin O'Neill.

The winger played under the ex-Celtic boss when he was in charge of Ireland and recently spoke about the manager in a very positive way.

That prompted further thoughts that the 24-year-old could end up at the City Ground, with a summer move on the cards as he approaches the final year of his deal with the Robins.

And, writing in his regular Nottinghamshire Live column, two-time European Cup winner Burns made it clear that he feels Forest are a step up for the player.

"To me, it sounded like he was saying he would want to come and play for us. Why wouldn’t you, though? I don’t mean or intend any disrespect to Bristol City either.

"For the last couple of years, they’ve outperformed Forest and quite comfortably at times, too. Forest are a far, far bigger club than the Robins, have greater potential, a bigger history and I dare say pay a bit more, too."

The Verdict

This will no doubt annoy Bristol City fans and you can understand why because in the last few years they have shown they are currently better than Forest.

Of course, there's no doubt that Forest are a bigger club but that doesn't count for much right now, it's about playing at the highest level possible for players.

However, O'Dowda clearly loves playing for O'Neill and given that you could see a move to Forest happening in the coming months.

Thoughts? Let us know in the comments below.