This article is part of Football League World's 'The Verdict' series, which provides personal opinions from the FLW writers regarding the latest breaking news, teams, players, managers, potential signings and more...
Nottingham Forest have made a solid start to the season, with Sabri Lamouchi's side currently in 10th spot in the Championship, ahead of the weekend trip to table topping Swansea City.
One player though who does not seem to be in Lamouchi's current plans is striker Zach Clough, who has been limited to U23 appearances so far this season, having spent last season on-loan at Rochdale.
So is there any role for Clough at Forest at all this season?
We discuss........
Josh Cole
“Having yet to feature for Forest this season, Clough may find it difficult to force his way into Sabri Lamouchi’s starting eleven.
“Whilst he did recently produce an encouraging performance for the Reds’ Under-23 side against Ipswich, the 24-year-old will have to show something special in training in order to displace Lewis Grabban up-front.
“Although he is predominately a forward, Clough may find more joy by targeting a place in Forest’s midfield.
“If he can somehow overtake the likes of Tiago Silva and Joao Carvalho in the pecking order at the City Ground, the former Rochdale loanee may be able to help the Reds achieve a relative amount of success in the Championship over the coming months.”
Toby Wilding
"At the minute I don't think there is one.
"Right now Forest have got plenty of options available in the attacking midfield roles, all of whom have proved there ability at this level in recent times.
"By contrast, Clough appeared to struggle during his loan spell with League One Rochdale last season, which does seem to suggest that it could be difficult for him to force his way back into the side at The City Ground this season.
"That being said, you never know when Forest may need to call on Clough due to injury or suspension, so it is essential for any potential future he has at the club that he keeps himself ready and able to make an impact should that opportunity arise."
George Harbey
“I can’t see Clough breaking into the Forest first-team anytime soon whatsoever – he is completely out of Lamouchi’s plans.
“I was so surprised when the transfer window closed and he was still a Forest player, even a move to League Two could have helped him massively.
“It’s a shame, because when he first signed for Forest he was fantastic in the number 10 role, but the likes of Joao Carvalho and Tiago Silva are much better players.
“I could see him being a very useful back-up striker to be honest – Forest need competition for Mir and Grabban, and considering how many goals he scored for Bolton up top, it’s definitely worth a shout.”