Boss Steve Cooper has challenged Keinan Davis to keep improving as he continues to “thrive” for Nottingham Forest.
The Aston Villa loanee netted a brilliant brace in Saturday’s 4-0 thumping of Reading to make it four goals for the Reds since signing in January.
It is Davis’ all-round play which really catches the eye, however, with the striker constantly proving a thorn in the side of defenders - just as he did against the Royals.
He is still building up his fitness, having not played particularly regularly for Villa, but Cooper has been delighted with his contribution so far - and believes he can get even better.
“He’s not used to playing game after game, after game. That’s why he didn’t play against Huddersfield - but Sam (Surridge) did excellent in that game,” said Cooper, who also had Surridge and Ryan Yates find the net at the City Ground.
“We do have to manage him a bit, but he’s getting stronger. He played the 90 minutes against Sheffield United, which was a bit of a milestone for him.
“We try to manage all of the players, in terms of their load.
“We picked up a couple of injuries (in Max Lowe and Steve Cook), but I said to the lads, whatever we do this year, it’s not going to be about 11, 12, 13 players, it’s going to be about everybody. You saw that with the lads who came off the bench.
“Keinan has got a lot of potential. I think this loan is going to be an important one for his career, because he’s playing games, he’s playing at a massive club, he’s wearing the No.9 and there’s a bit of expectation on him.
“He’s a really good guy and has settled in.
“He’s really into his learning. He likes the individual stuff. After training, he’s interested in his development.
“We’re really enjoying seeing him thriving in the moment. But, like all of these young lads, it’s about what’s next.
“I really wanted to sign him at Swansea, so when there was a chance to do it here, we didn’t hesitate. It’s great to have him here.
“Sometimes you see the powerful player around the box who can make things happen, but he’s also a really good technical player. He’s difficult to play against, too. He’s a combative player. He’s a good footballer.
“If he can keep playing like that, he’s going to do alright.”
