Nottingham Forest have decided to offer new contracts to Oliver Hammond and James Clarridge.The young duo will now have the decision whether to sign the new terms or move elsewhere.
Hammond was on the bench as recently as April. He replaced Jonjo Shelvey in the matchday squad after the 31-year-old had a disagreement with Steve Cooper over his place in the starting eleven.
The talented youngster should stay at the City Ground. He’s been with the Reds for many years and he will fancy his chances of making an impact on the senior ranks at some point in his career.
Clarridge is an intriguing one. Clearly, the club have some big plans for the central defender but injury has ravaged his 2022/23 campaign, with Forest now choosing to keep him around.
At 19-years-old, Clarridge is deemed as one for the future. Last season he didn’t make a single appearance for the under-21s and only played four times for the under-18s.
He will be given more time to prove his fitness now and he will be buoyed by this offer of a new deal. Clarridge typically operates as a central defender and is comfortable on either side.
Forest offer new contract to Hammond and Clarridge
Hammond has already played for the first-team ranks at Forest. He featured in the Carabao Cup clash against Grimsby this season and has been on the bench in the Premier League a few times.
Clarridge should also come good. He just needs to have a full season where he stays fit and maybe then he can start to kick on and make a name for himself at the club.
Hammond is a central midfielder and ultimately there is competition for places at Forest in that area. As a result, perhaps a loan move would be ideal for the 20-year-old during 2023/24.
