Nottingham Forest confirm exit of club stalwart amid Steve Cooper praise

Head coach Steve Cooper has praised “incredible servant” Jordan Smith as the goalkeeper’s Nottingham Forest departure is announced.

The Nigel Doughty Academy graduate leaves as a free agent this summer at the end of his contract. It brings an end to a stint of more than two decades Trentside for the 28-year-old.

Smith joined the club at the age of seven and made his first-team debut against Norwich City in February 2017. His last appearance for the Reds was also against the Canaries, in March 2021.

He was part of the squad which secured promotion to the Premier League 12 months ago and made 54 appearances in total in all competitions. But he spent the second half of the season just gone on loan at Huddersfield Town.

“Jordan has been an incredible servant to Nottingham Forest,” Cooper said. “During my time working with him, he has shown excellent commitment to doing his best for the good of the football club.

“He has made a real contribution with his positive outlook and work ethic. On behalf of everyone at Nottingham Forest, we wish him well for the future.”

A statement from the club added: “Everyone at Nottingham Forest thanks Jordan for his huge contribution during his time at the City Ground and wishes him every success going forward.”

Forest have already confirmed the departure of midfielder Jack Colback at the end of his contract this summer. The goalkeeping department is an area they will need to look at in the transfer window as Dean Henderson (Manchester United) and Keylor Navas (PSG) were on loan at the City Ground, while Ethan Horvath spent the season at Luton Town, helping the Hatters secure promotion to the top-flight.