Nottingham Forest Under-23s coach Andy Reid wants to keep the talents of summer signing Ateef Konate under wraps after he scored again for the club’s youngsters.
Attacking midfielder Konate, who arrived from Le Havre in the summer, scored his fifth goal of the season for the Under-23s on Monday as league leaders Forest ended the year with a 3-0 win over Crewe Alexandra.
The 19-year-old’s displays have caught the attention of supporters hoping he may soon get a first-team chance and Reid said he is one worth keeping an eye on.
Asked about Konate, Reid replied: “Lots to look forward to with Ateef. Keep it quiet though!”
He added, on the win: “What a fantastic way to finish the first half of the season! Very proud.”
Julian Larsson and Alex Gibson-Hammond also netted in the first half to have the victory sewn up by half-time.
Will Swan, who recently made his senior debut, also featured.
That’s now three wins on the bounce for Forest’s Under-23s, and they lead the Professional Development League North table by five points having taken 28 from a possible 33 this season.
Forest U23s: Shelvey, Rama (Back, 45’), Sanders, Barnes, Fernandes, Harbottle, Larsson (Asare, 45’), Dekel-Daks, Swan, Konate, Gibson-Hammond (Taylor, 85’).
