Andrew Omobamidele’s entrance was somewhat of a surprise given the flurry of new signings Nottingham Forest had on deadline day.
In fact, the center back has yet to play for the Reds or even crack the starting lineup. However, head coach Steve Cooper has made hints that this could soon be changing.
Omobamidele moved from Norwich City to the City Ground because he was thought to be a promising future. Having progressed through the Carrow Road divisions, he signed a five-year contract with Forest.
Cooper specifically mentioned the defender during the pregame press conference held in front of Saturday’s game against Luton Town. The 21-year-old’s performance in training has impressed him, and he also mentioned that a debut might not be too far off.
“Everyone should know that we are really happy with Andrew. And he’s done a great job adjusting.
“I believe it will only be a matter of time until we get to see him or allow him to play. However, when he initially arrived, the time might have appeared slightly different to Danilo, Anthony (Elanga), or Murillo.
However, we’re really content with him. He is a dedicated, highly responsible professional. competent player.
“We’re eager to give him our full attention. And he’s experiencing the same thing.
Omobamidele merely needs to look to colleague Murillo’s example to be reminded of how rapidly things can change. The Brazilian signed a contract with the Reds in the summer as well, but he had to wait for his opportunity, which he seized.
When Murillo was starting XI for the first time in the Garibaldi, he made an impression against Brentford. Then, right before the international break, he improved on that performance with a magnificent display against Crystal Palace.
Omobamidele is a distinct kind of athlete. However, Cooper still faces the same difficulty in determining when to bring a young player up to speed.
It can be difficult to earn an opportunity. While forcing a way into a team that has had a positive start to the season is not always simple, the goal is to have a fairly established squad.
Cooper said, “You can’t just change it completely with all the signings who came on deadline day and the fact the team has been doing OK.” “The procedure needs to be a little bit slow.
That’s our goal right now. That’s not to assume that every player that signed will play for the team; the goal is to have a competitive squad with the right players in the appropriate spots.
We currently have a few injuries, which is not helpful in certain situations but may present some chances in others. It is constantly attempting to strike a balance.
“We sense that we are making progress. We have the impression that we are attempting to construct something. However, what we are doing is developing, and that will require time. Although there will be ups and downs, we must remain committed to the strategy and follow it.
He continued, saying, “You try to get these young guys the opportunity at the right time.” There are situations where it matters when you insert them and situations when it matters when you don’t play them as well.
“Even though Andrew (as Murillo) hasn’t played, we’re still happy with him.” We are constantly keeping an eye on specific athletes.
