Alious
Ryan Yates remains one of Nottingham Forest’s most polarizing figures, yet the 26-year-old midfielder’s journey through England’s top five divisions has culminated in him establishing himself as a genuine Premier League player. While he may not top any lists for technical brilliance, his ability to disrupt opponents’ play – a quality that earned praise from Jamie Carragher during last season’s Chelsea match – has become his trademark.
Now serving as club captain during Forest’s impressive start under Nuno Espirito Santo, Yates has evolved beyond just being a nuisance on the field. As the longest-serving player in the current squad, he’s taken on a crucial leadership role, particularly in helping new signings integrate into both the club and city life.
This mentoring aspect of Yates’s contribution has come to light through his relationship with summer signing Elliott Anderson. The Athletic reports that Yates has taken a personal interest in helping the former Newcastle player settle in Nottingham, a move that appears to be paying dividends given Anderson’s recent Man of the Match performance for England Under-21s.
The partnership between Yates and Anderson represents an intriguing blend of styles. While Yates brings his characteristic workrate and determination, Anderson combines similar energy levels with superior technical ability. This complementary partnership could prove crucial for Forest, with both players potentially linking up in midfield for Monday’s Crystal Palace fixture.
As Forest sit tenth in the Premier League after seven games, Yates’s evolution from divisive figure to influential captain reflects both his personal growth and the club’s progression. While his technical limitations may still draw criticism, his importance to the team’s structure and culture becomes increasingly evident.
Alious
