Former academy prospect Connor Brown recently appeared for City following his release from Nottingham Forest.
The 19-year-old striker featured in the Imps’ recent pre-season clash with Lincoln United, lining up as one of three unnamed trialists in Michael Skubala’s starting eleven.
Connor Brown Gets Second Chance With the Imps
Brown came through the ranks at the Bank before departing in 2021 to join East Midlands rivals Forest. His time at the City Ground saw him emerge as a prolific youth talent, netting 19 goals in the U18 Premier League and maintaining a strike rate close to one goal every two games.
However, like many young forwards, the transition to senior development football proved more testing. He managed just 76 minutes in Premier League 2 last season and saw minimal action in the EFL Trophy, where his only appearance was an eight-minute cameo against Morecambe.
One standout moment did arrive in the Premier League International Cup, where Brown scored in a 3-0 victory over Dinamo Zagreb—a tournament Forest’s B Team went on to win. Still, he remained on the fringes throughout the campaign and was part of a summer clear-out at Forest designed to reshape their development pathway.
Craig Mulholland, Forest’s Head of Football Development & Talent Management, paid tribute to the players who moved on, including Brown.
“All of the staff at the club wish the lads well, and it is so pleasing to see so many already signed up and continuing their professional careers elsewhere. Alex Bailey, and his excellent well-being and player care team, will now stay in touch with all of the lads to ensure that they continue to receive all the care and help they require on the next exciting step in their careers.”
That next step might come full circle. Brown’s return to the Imps’ fold as a trialist suggests the club are open to giving him another shot. We’re not necessarily searching for forward options ahead of a demanding 2025/26 League One campaign, but the door appears open for the teenager to stake his claim for a longer stay.
This is a smart move with little downside for the Imps. Brown’s academy scoring record speaks for itself, and while the jump to U21s was a stumbling block, that doesn’t mean he’s reached his ceiling.
Reconnecting with a familiar club could be just what he needs to rediscover his form and confidence. If he impresses in pre-season, a permanent deal could be a win-win for both player and club.