Arriving at Nottingham Forest in early January, Richie Laryea is yet to make a first-team appearance for the Reds. 

The 27-year-old, who arrived from Toronto FC, signed a three-and-a-half-year deal at The City Ground, joining as the club's third January signing. 

Laryea has been an unused substitute twice in the league thus far for the Reds, making the 18-man squad in three of four Forest FA Cup clashes this season.

A Canadian international, the right-back has featured 25 times for his country since his 2019 debut. 

How's it gone so far? 

Given the length of his contract, there was no immediate pressure for Laryea to see minutes from the very start, with Djed Spence continuing to shine at right wing-back. 

However, he would have probably expected to see more minutes than nothing. 

Given his international experience and the starring role he played at Toronto, Laryea is someone who can certainly play a part in what remains of this season, should his services be required. 

What issues does he face?

The obvious issue he faces at the moment is the lack of football he is seeing in a Forest shirt, and at 27 years old, he will be wanting regular minutes. 

As mentioned before, the continued rise of Spence makes it difficult for the full-back, however, the 21-year-old is only on loan. 

Another issue he could face is that Forest could be promoted to the Premier League this season, and if he is unable to experience much game time in the Championship, then it may become increasingly difficult for him in the higher division. 

What's next?

It is hard to predict what is next for Laryea, with the three-and-a-half-year contract he was handed being an indication that the Reds see him as a big part of their future. 

Should Forest remain in the Championship, then it would be no surprise to see Laryea tasked with regular minutes in the second-tier next season, with it proving unlikely that Spence will return. 

It is ultimately about being prepared for whatever is thrown his way in the coming weeks and beyond, as heightened injury concerns and general player unavailability has been a common theme in the second-tier this season.