Stuart Pearce believes Tom Ince can play a key role for Nottingham Forest, who have secured the winger on loan until 28 December.
The 22-year-old joined Hull City when his Crystal Palace contract expired during the summer, but he has found it difficult forcing his way into Steve Bruce’s first team plans this season. Ince has made just three appearances in the Premier League and a further outing in the League Cup, so the Tigers were willing to let him leave on a temporary basis so he could get more action.
Still considered to be one of the best young talents in the country, it is thought a number of clubs had shown an interest in taking him. However, Forest have nicked in to land the player on loan until 28 December, during which time manager Pearce is confident the England Under-21 international can become a key part of their push for a top-two spot in the Championship.
“He offers goals, he also offers a wide threat, left and right – and can also play in the number ten position, which he has played in before,” he said in the Nottingham Post. “We are in a situation where we need as many options around the squad as possible. It is important, when you have the amount of games we have, that you build a good squad. Losing the likes of Andy Reid, Chris Cohen and Jack Hobbs – we have lost three big players who will be out at least until Christmas.”
Ince, who in the past has been widely linked with Internazionale, is also relishing the prospect of more game time at the City Ground. The former Liverpool youngster added: “I am thankful for the opportunity, because it has been a difficult start to the season. It is vital now that I get games and get back to playing with a smile on my face. There is no better place for me to do that than here, with the gaffer they have, the players they have got and the way Forest have started this season.”
