So, farewell then, Andy Reid
04/05/04 | by Alex Walker

Forest are to play Tottenham in a pre-season friendly – it’s just too much of a coincidence, isn’t it? Even for those who do not believe the rumours that Andy Reid is already signed-up to join Spurs in the summer for £7.5million, it is still widely accepted that he will be leaving the club to seek Premiership fame and fortune shortly. So, it was with some sadness that 30,000 fans watched what was probably his last ever appearance wearing Red at the City Ground on Saturday.

A recent Reidy-backlash backlash prompted by the expression of his desire to play in the top flight, coupled with a noticeable (and perhaps not unrelated) drop in his form, was happily put behind us and our Irish superstar was given a roaring send off by the Forest faithful.

Deservedly so, for had it not been for Reid’s brilliance this season, the campaign would have held little joy – what’s more, we might have found ourselves unable to escape the danger of relegation without his creativity. We all know Reid is good enough to play in the Premiership, and although it will be sad to see him go, I personally wish him all the best.

We know full-well what it’s like to say goodbye to our young stars after the sales of Jenas, Prutton and Harewood. Unfortunately it’s a reality that we must accept as long as we are outside the Premiership, and even if we get into the top flight, we cannot expect to keep hold of all our best players forever – just ask Charlton fans!

So, Andy, if you’re reading this, thanks for your services to the club in your short career here. We always knew you had the talent to make it big, but for a while there it looked like you’d thrown it all away. But credit where credit is due – you overcame your fitness problems and this is your reward.

But be careful. Just because JJ made the jump up the big league with success, does not mean you will. You may shine at Forest, but at a decent Premiership side you may find yourself pushed out of the limelight by brighter stars than you. I just hope that you make (or, as the case may be, have made) the right decision and chose a club who will put your talents to good use and allow them to develop naturally.

And if you come back to the City Ground in July wearing a lily-white shirt, I’m sure you will get a warm reception. But don’t expect us to be hung-up about losing you – our paths must part here and, like you, we have to move on and find our own way to get to the Premiership. The money we receive from your sale will be a massive help in achieving this.