The Nigel Doughty Academy has long been the jewel in Nottingham Forest’s crown. And now it’s official, with the club awarded Category 1 status.
The Reds have a proud tradition of bringing through talented youngsters, with much excitement about the latest crop as the likes of Brennan Johnson, Jordan Gabriel and Alex Mighten will hope to play key roles for Chris Hughton next season.
And, what chairman Nicholas Randall described as an “important milestone”, can only help maintain that production line; boosting the resources available for the first-team at the same time.
We take a look at what it all means for the club.
Contract uncertainty
Sunderland say they remain in talks with Nottingham Forest-linked striker Charlie Wyke over his future at the club.
A 31-goal haul for the Black Cats this season has put the 28-year-old firmly in the spotlight, with plenty of teams said to be battling for his signature.
Along with the Reds, Championship rivals Cardiff City, Middlesbrough and Millwall have all been credited with an interest, as well as Scottish giants Celtic.
Wyke fired his team into the League One play-offs, but with Lee Johnson’s side beaten by Lincoln City in the semi-finals, the forward’s future is up in the air as his contract comes to a close.
'New challenge'
Striker Joe Pigott, who was linked with Nottingham Forest earlier this year, is a free agent after turning down a new contract at AFC Wimbledon.
The Reds were one of a number of clubs linked with the 27-year-old during the January transfer window, and he says he is now ready “for a new challenge”.
Pigott joined the Dons in January 2018 from Maidstone and bagged 22 goals in 52 appearances in all competitions during the season just gone.
On opting not to sign fresh terms, he told the club website: “This has been the toughest decision of my career and I’ve decided that I will be looking for a new challenge.”
Questions answered
The action on the pitch might have finished, but there is still plenty going on at Nottingham Forest now the close season is in full swing.
The club’s Nigel Doughty Academy has been awarded Category 1 status after submitting an application last year.
And the transfer rumour mill is in full swing, as boss Chris Hughton plots a summer overhaul of his squad in preparation for a top six challenge next term.
Matt Davies and Sarah Clapson discussed all the goings on, taking questions from fans, in a live broadcast on our Reds Facebook page.
Here’s how it panned out.
