Football League World
·23 February 2022
Football League World
·23 February 2022
This article is part of Football League World’s ‘Terrace Talk’ series, which provides personal opinions from our FLW Fan Pundits regarding the latest breaking news, teams, players, managers, potential signings and more…
FLW’s Nottingham Forest fan pundit Des Oldham believes that Philip Zinckernagel could be a good addition to the side on a permanent basis.
Oldham did caveat that admission by claiming that the winger is probably not what the club will need if they do gain promotion to the Premier League.
Oldham believes that Forest will need to upgrade on the Dane if the Reds find themselves back in the top flight next season.
However, if they are unable to secure promotion then the club should look to add Zinckernagel to the club permanently.
“If Forest are in the Premier League next season then I probably wouldn’t sign Zinckernagel,” Oldham told Football League World.
“I’d just be looking to improve on what we’ve got.
“Should we be in the Championship, I’d definitely snap him up.”
Oldham was extremely complimentary of Zinckernagel’s ability. In particular, Oldham pointed out his skill on the ball and his creativity that he adds to the team.
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Oldham also pointed to his work rate, but also admitted that there is likely still more to come from the 27-year old.
“Whilst he’s got skills, he’s got flair, he creates opportunities, he also works really hard for the team,” added FLW’s Nottingham Forest fan pundit.
“At this level, I think he’d be a great addition, especially if we lose one or two other players elsewhere.
“I do see at times that Cooper can get a little bit frustrated with him, so perhaps there’s a little bit more to come.
“More work under Cooper’s leadership might just get the best out of Zinckernagel next season.”
Zinckernagel has featured 29 times in the Championship so far for the Reds, starting 23 times.
He has chipped in with four goals and five assists as the club have risen up the table under Cooper.
Forest are currently seventh in the table, with the visit of Bristol City awaiting the side next on February 26.
The Verdict
Zinckernagel has been a key player under Cooper’s rise with the club since his arrival in September.
But there are better talents at the club who are above him in the pecking order, most notably Brennan Johnson.
That is why their status as a club for next season is so important in deciding his future.
As a Premier League club, Johnson is more likely to stay at Forest which would facilitate the club finding a replacement for Zinckernagel instead.
But he clearly is good enough for the Championship and would be a good permanent addition should they fail to earn promotion.