Kalum Thompson: Nottingham Forest already have perfect answer to Callum Hudson-Odoi blow
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Credit: Imago Wed 29 April 2026 18:00, UK Kalum Thompson should be given a chance at success as Nottingham Forest battle with some disappointing injury blows.Vitor Pereira has produced some fine displays since arriving at the City Ground, winning six of his 14 games in charge, including reaching a Europa League semi-final against Aston Villa.The former Wolves figure will have to play the remaining games of the campaign without Callum Hudson-Odoi, however, after he picked up a muscle injury against FC Porto.That could open the door for multiple players to bag a starting role at the City Ground, and with Forest next facing Villa on Thursday, 30 April, 17-year-old Thompson could be a the main beneficiary. ⚽ Nottingham Forest Matchday ⚽ Team news, line-ups, expert previews and tactical analysis for every Nottingham Forest fixture. VISIT THE FOREST MATCH HUB MORE FOOTBALL INSIDER STORIES Kalum Thompson is surely turning heads at the City GroundThompson is experiencing a fine season in Forest’s academy, notching seven goals and five assists in 31 matches, with six of those contributions coming in the Premier League 2.Sadly, the Reds’ Under-21s were unable to finish in a qualification spot for the play-offs, finishing 17th out of 29 teams, but Thompson can keep his head high after a bright campaign.Despite being just 17 years of age, he shows a fearlessness on the left flank, and given his ability to play in attacking midfield or on the opposite wing, he could be a perfect fit in the first team.Nottingham Forest U21sGamesGoalsAssistsKalum Thompson3175Omari Hutchinson and Dilane Bakwa have done little to hold down the position at the City Ground, and that should give Thompson a chance to make the step up before the end of the current season.Which other Nottingham Forest gems deserve to be noticed?As well as Thompson, Jimmy Sinclair is having a sensational season from right-wing-back, notching five goals and five assists in 35 games, making him an ideal back-up for Ola Aina.Centre-midfielder Archie Whitehall also deserves recognition for his performances.
From a defensive role, the 19-year-old has still bagged six goal contributions, and has surely peaked the first-team boss’ attention.Pereira could be put off trusting some younger talents, however. James McAtee could already be heading for the exit doors, just 12 months after his arrival, having failed to impress four managers this season.Thompson has a fearlessness in the final third.
With McAtee, and several other players, failing to grab their opportunity, the youngster should be next in line, with a debut on the cards at the City Ground. Don’t Miss a Beat: Your Nottingham Forest Insider Access Get the full story from the City Ground and the Forest Training Centre with our dedicated expert hubs: Updated 24/7 with expert analysis from the banks of the River Trent.