Nottingham Forest defender Tendayi Darikwa has hailed the progress made by Matty Cash under Sabri Lamouchi this season.

The homegrown star has been a regular for the Reds under Lamouchi this season, making 17 appearances in all competitions and helping Forest climb into the play-off spots.

The 22-year-old - who has been used a winger under every single previous manager - has established himself as Forest's first-choice right-back due to injuries to Tendayi Darikwa and Carl Jenkinson.

Darikwa ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament in pre-season and is obviously yet to make an appearance under Lamouchi, and he faces an uphill battle to get back into the team once he returns.

Speaking to Nottinghamshire Live, though, Darikwa has praised the impact Cash has made thus far this season, insisting that he's always seen the potential of him becoming a defender.

Darikwa said: "I’ve always seen the potential of him playing there because I think he’s got all the attributes to do that. He’s showcasing his talents there now and showing that he can play in that position.

"He likes to get forward and I think the defensive side of his game is improving every single game. He’s young and he’s still learning, but he’s doing a lot of work with the coaches.

"I see him every day and he comes in with a smile on his face. I’m pleased for him because he’s a great guy as well."

Cash helped Forest record another win over their arch rivals Derby County at the weekend - Sabri Lamouchi's side sit fifth in the Sky Bet Championship table, three points off the top two with a game in hand.

The Verdict

Cash has been absolutely superb for Forest in his new position this season, and to be honest, I'm baffled that he hasn't been linked with a Premier League side as of yet.

He has everything he needs to become a really good modern day full-back - he is so good going forward and on the overlap, as you would expect from a natural winger.

He's also improving defensively, though, and he has been so important under Lamouchi this season.