Nottingham Forest defender Omar Richards has spent the current campaign on loan with Olympiacos – and now he could be set for a big moment.
The Reds allowed the injury-stricken player to leave the City Ground to play regular football in the summer.
Last season was a complete disaster for the player as he suffered a hairline fracture of his shin and then needed a hernia operation.
He’s fought back superbly well and in large with Olympiacos, he’s managed to keep himself fit.
Now, the 26-year-old could be set for a defining moment and Richards could get a chance to prove he’s got what it takes in the Premier League with Forest next season.
Forest defender Omar Richards to get big Olympiacos chance
This week could be a really big week for the Greek giants and they currently have one foot in the final of the UEFA Conference League.
Aston Villa were put to the sword last week as the Evangelos Marinakis-owned club ran out 4-2 winners in their semi-final first leg.
Now, Forest-owned Richards could be in line for a chance to shine this week.
It’s claimed by journalist Konstantinos Lianos that the player will get the nod to start at left-back in the second leg on Thursday night.
First-choice left-back Francisco Ortega has picked up an injury and that will throw Richards into the spotlight against the Premier League club.
The player signed for £8.5 million from Bayern Munich will be ready for it and has made 14 appearances in all competitions this season.
Defender could get chance at Forest next season
It’s been a long road for Richards but surely the club will take a look ahead of 2024/25.
Richards was desperate to hit the ground running at Forest but ultimately, injuries put paid to that concept.
Now, he’s had to do things the hard way and go out on loan to play regular first-team football instead.
Forest could find themselves in a situation where they need to take a look at another option at left-back.
No decision has been made on Ola Aina yet, whilst Harry Toffolo doesn’t seem to be overly fancied by Nuno Espirito Santo.
That could open the door for Richards to stake his claim for a place at Forest and it could be a big pre-season for the player.
His first priority will be to end the season with a flourish with Olympiacos and a European final is on the cards.
Richards will get a sample of life in the Premier League when he seemingly gets the nod to face Villa this week.
Forest face will be watching intently and Richards will hope to prove that he can cut it in the Premier League when he returns to the City Ground.
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