Joe Lolley issues honest view on his last few months at Nottingham Forest

The winger has been absent through a combination of injury and illness which has left him struggling for game time in the side. 

Lolley only featured for the first time in 2022 earlier this month with two appearances off the bench against Sheffield United and then QPR.

The FA Cup quarter final defeat to Liverpool last weekend was his first start of the calendar year.

But Lolley now believes he has a spring in his step following his return to action in recent weeks despite a difficult previous few months. 

The 29-year old has admitted his body let him down but has claimed he is ready to step into Steve Cooper’s side whenever needed. 

“It can be difficult. You beat yourself up a bit because you know you’re not playing,” said Lolley, via Nottinghamshire Live. 

“I came on against Sheffield United, but it was for four or five minutes. I hadn’t played for almost four months, with injuries as well and stuff like that.

“You go into the games and you know you’re physically ready. It’s up to you then, to make sure you are mentally switched on.

“I haven’t been too involved and it does knock your confidence somewhat. But feeling part of it, getting some touches on the ball and doing positive things, it’s nice for me.

“I’d say my body has probably let me down a bit over the last 18 months or so. Being able to beat a few players, it gives you a bit of a spring in your step, knowing that there’s still a bit of life there!”

Lolley has only featured 18 times in the Championship for Forest this season. 

Of those 18 appearances, only nine have come from the start as Lolley has fallen down the pecking order at the club.

But the experienced player could still play a vital role as the Reds push for a promotion place this campaign.

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