Matty Cash has undoubtedly been one of the best players in the Championship this season, but could he be making a move to the Premier League this Summer?
Rumours have circulated in recent weeks that clubs in the top flight are targeting Cash as a potential signing. So how could he fare in the Premier League?
How Could Matty Cash Fare in the Premier League?
The most striking aspect of Cash’s game is his versatility. He originally started out as a wide midfielder for Nottingham Forest. Then, he was converted to full-back following the arrival of Sabri Lamouchi last Summer.
Eyebrows were raised when Cash was moved to right-back, but it’s a decision which has paid off for Lamouchi and Forest.
Going forward, Matty Cash has been excellent. He bagged himself three goals last season.
His creativity has also been a revelation for the East Midlands’ side too. Cash made a total of 158 crosses in 2019/20, which is over twice as many than he did the season before (75). Cash also notched up five assists last season too, beating his total number of assists in the three seasons prior (two), highlighting Cash’s influence as an attacking threat.
But what about his defensive duties? How do they compare to his attacking threat? Well in truth he has excelled as a right-back. Cash made 59 interceptions last season for the Reds. He also made 84 successful tackles, which is more than any other player in England’s Second Division.
Matty Cash was also part of a back four which conceded 50 goals last season, the fifth-lowest in the division. This includes 14 clean sheets in the Championship.
With the Nottingham Forest man also known for his pace, he typifies the modern full-back. He has the ability to cover ground quickly which has allowed Cash to mix his defensive duties with the natural attacking side of his game. And those statistics above reinforce why Premier League clubs are keen on signing him.
Where Would Matty Cash Fit in Best?
Sheffield United
Sheffield United are believed to one of the clubs who are keen to take Matty Cash away from the City Ground. According to the Nottingham Post the Blades had a £10 Million rejected by Forest, but are believed to table another offer soon.
A move to Bramall Lane would not be the worst of moves for Matty Cash. The South Yorkshire side played a 3-5-2 formation last season, meaning that Cash will most likely play as a wing-back, competing with George Baldock who has established himself in that role.
Sheffield United were solid defensively last season too, conceding just 39 goals, the fourth-best defensive record in the Premier League. On top of that, they played an exciting brand of attacking football; Cash can add to this, should he make the move up the M1 this transfer window.
It should also be noted that his former Forest teammates Ben Osborn and Jack Robinson are at Sheffield United; this could be another factor that could also persuade Cash for a potential move to Yorkshire.
Southampton
Southampton are another club who have reportedly made their interests known, allegedly placing a £12 Million bid for the Forest man. With Cedric Soares departing for Arsenal and Kyle Walker-Peters returning to Tottenham – though there are rumours of a move to St.Mary’s – the Saints desperately need a right-back.
After what was an atrocious start to the campaign, a 2-1 defeat at Everton in November prompted a change in formation from manager Ralph Hassenhutl. They have used 4-4-2 and 4-2-2-2, formations that has worked for them since. When using them systems Southampton picked up 46 points last season, which guided them to a respected 11th place finish.
If Matty Cash is to join Southampton he would be used as an attacking right-back – a role which he has become accustomed too in the last 12 months.
After what was a disappointing end to the season for Nottingham Forest, many will be hoping that Cash will remain at the City Ground next season and be part of the side which could challenge in England’s second tier.
But wherever Matty Cash by October 6, he will definitely make an impact and be a real asset for his side.
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