On deadline day, Nottingham Forest welcomed three new first-team additions, necessitating the creation of space in the squad. While Jota Silva’s move to Sporting fell through due to a registration issue, Eric da Silva Moreira and Omar Richards joined Rio Ave on loan. Additionally, Josh Bowler had his contract terminated by mutual consent, paving the way for his return to Blackpool.
Bowler, who never made a competitive appearance for Forest, expressed his excitement about rejoining Blackpool, highlighting the strong connection he feels with the club and its supporters. Despite the lack of opportunities at Forest and several loan spells, Bowler looks forward to contributing to Blackpool’s success.
Bowler’s unsuccessful stint at Forest was evident from the start, with his time there marked by limited playing time. Following a dismal spell at Preston and a brief stint at Luton, Bowler’s permanent return to Blackpool offers a fresh start for his career. Retrospectively, signing for Forest proved to be a poor career move for Bowler, as indicated by the lack of a clear plan for his development at the club.
The announcement of Bowler’s signing by Forest lacked player or club representative quotes, with a focus on his loan to Olympiacos and his previous successes at Blackpool. However, the subsequent loan return to Blackpool after just seven appearances at Olympiacos underscored the difficulties Bowler faced at Forest, ultimately leading to his departure and return to familiar surroundings at Blackpool.