Nottingham Forest have built a lot of their success upon their defensive solidity this term with Sabri Lamouchi seemingly preferring a counter-attacking style that relies on two midfielders sitting deep.
When Forest are at their best, Ben Watson and Samba Sow have occupied those two positions, with the Reds winning 68% of the matches in which the latter has played. Indeed, Sow joined in the summer and has already proved a very astute addition with 3.8 tackles and 1.6 interceptions per game (via WhoScored), so it is easy to see why he is missed when he is unavailable.
The extent to which his absence hinders Sabri Lamouchi’s side is quite alarming, however, as they have managed just 19 points from the 18 league matches that Sow has missed – recording a win rate of just 22%.
Supporters have been discussing his importance as a result, particularly as he missed the weekend clash against QPR due to a niggling knee injury that has caused problems throughout the campaign, and could, therefore, prevent him from playing a major role in the promotion run-in. Indeed, the Nottingham Post claimed yesterday that he’s ‘touch and go’ for the clash with Cardiff today.
That could be a big blow for Forest and their promotion aspirations, with fans even going so far as to say he is ‘so vital it’s frightening’…
He's so vital it's frightening. He's also only managed 30+ league games in 2 seasons in his 10 year career. We need major quality signings in midfield this summer. Watson won't last another year, Sow is injury prone. Can see us pushing Silva back as one of the 2dm's.
— Leesus (@LeeHolmes1983) February 24, 2020
Think Yates is being groomed to play his role too just gonna take some time to adapt from his old utility role
— Rohit Mistry (@RohitMistry88) February 24, 2020
I keep looking at @JohnJBostock and thinking we have someone able to play in that role. Why he hasn’t been given more of an opportunity, even some U23 games raises an eyebrow for me.
— Teilo (@teilo007) February 24, 2020
Won’t make the playoffs now. Not because of Samba Sow just because we’ve been punching well above our actual standard all season
— Adam Beer (@AdamMaekju) February 25, 2020
Why wasn’t a replacement found in Jan? If one player is so crucial to our plans who has had a bad injury record whilst at the club, why didn’t Jose Anigo sign a suitable cover
— Brummie Tricky 🌳 (@BrummieTricky) February 24, 2020
Big mistake letting yacob go couldnt believe it. Yates not good enough semedo a bit inconsistent
— MATTHEW WILKINSON (@mrwhitey38) February 24, 2020
What is your take on Sow and his importance to the team Forest fans? Are you worried that his absence could end your chances of promotion? Share your view in the comments…
