Breakthrough and bad luck in the Championship

Signing a three-year contract with Nottingham Forest

On 5 August 2016 in Nottingham, England, just two days before turning 19, Matty Cash signed a new three-year contract with Nottingham Forest running until 2019. For the young midfielder, who had previously gained senior experience out on loan, this was a reward for his progress in the academy and a concrete step toward establishing himself in professional football.

First-team debut against Burton Albion

Just one day after putting pen to paper, on 6 August 2016, Matty Cash made his Nottingham Forest first-team debut, starting in an action-packed 4–3 victory against Burton Albion. Thrust straight into the starting eleven, the teenager showed he could handle the physical demands and intensity of the Championship right from the opening weeks of the campaign.

Tibia fracture injury at Villa Park

On 11 September 2016, during an away match against Aston Villa in Birmingham, Matty Cash suffered a major setback. At the very beginning of the fixture, which ultimately ended in a 2–2 draw, the midfielder suffered a fracture to his tibia. This serious injury sidelined the Nottingham Forest player for approximately three months, interrupting his breakthrough momentum just as he was locking down regular minutes.

Return to action and season statistics

After months of rehabilitation, Cash fought his way back onto the pitch to resume his development in senior English football. Over the course of the 2016–17 season, he made 28 league appearances without scoring and featured in 2 cup matches, totaling 30 appearances for Nottingham Forest. Despite the months lost to injury, the campaign laid the foundation for his future success in the English game. Read more about his journey on the Matty Cash career page.