Nottingham Forest have been on a spending spree since being confirmed in the Europa League, and one of their big additions was Omari Hutchinson from Ipswich Town.
Forest signed Hutchinson in a £37m deal, beating Premier League rivals Brentford to his signature, but there have been a few question marks among supporters.
Some aren’t totally convinced it was a good use of funds, however, the general consensus is that there’s clearly a very talented player there.
“I’m going to give it my all and I’m looking forward to the challenge as it’s a new chapter for me, but I feel ready,” Hutchinson said in his first interview.
Ahead of his potential debut against Crystal Palace this weekend, we’ve spoken to Ipswich Town expert Luke Thrower, who writes for EFL Analysis, to get the lowdown on exactly what Nottingham Forest can expect from the winger.
Nottingham Forest attacker Omari Hutchinson.
Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images
What to expect from new Nottingham Forest signing Omari Hutchinson
What are Hutchinson’s strengths?
“Omari Hutchinson is a fantastic dribbler. His close control makes him quite difficult for defenders to deal with, while he has enough acceleration to burst past the opposition in close duels.
“He has shown an eye for goal at times, for example, he was in fine form during Ipswich’s win over Hull, which effectively sealed promotion for the side, with some outrageous strikes.
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“He is decent defensively and willing to put a shift in if required, which should suit Nottingham Forest well, as they need their forwards involved in all phases of play.”
Where can Hutchinson improve?
“There are probably two main areas where Omari Hutchinson can improve, and they are relatively linked to one another. One surrounds his decision-making.
“There are times when the forward can dribble with his head down, failing to pick out a pass or make the easier move to keep the ball.
“It’s a risk you take with someone who could produce some magic with his dribbling. The other area to improve is his output.
“Last season, his first in the Premier League, the 21-year-old scored just three times and assisted twice. It’s worth noting this was obviously for a relatively weak Ipswich team in comparison to the rest of the division, so there is every chance this could improve with the jump to Forest.”
What is Hutchinson’s best position?
“The joy of having a player like Omari Hutchinson is that you can mould him into whatever you need. The former Arsenal and Chelsea academy ace has played across the frontline, featuring on both flanks and as an attacking midfielder.
“His most dangerous position at Ipswich was on the right flank, which allowed him to cut-in on his left foot or take the defender on the outside with his right.
“If you’d prefer him to hold width, then he can slot in on the left. I personally think he’d be best off on the right, but there is a young player here who can really play anywhere.”
Do you think Hutchinson will be a good signing?
“Looking at the position Nottingham Forest are in, I think Omari Hutchinson will be a great signing. There isn’t the immediate pressure to perform, as there will be Callum Hudson-Odoi and Dan Ndoye ahead of him.
“There is real potential there with him and given the fact that the club will want a sustainable run around those European places for years to come, having a young player who can grow while offering quality in the here and now is vital. It sets up a good foundation for Forest in the future.”