Wycombe defender Jack Grimmer has praised the attitude and performances of centre back Chris Forino.
Forino, who joined the club on a free transfer in the spring, has played six times for the first team and has scored one goal for the Chairboys, which came in the 2-2 draw away at Hartlepool United.
He made his league debut in the victory over Burton Albion 2-1 on December 7 where he was awarded as the Man of the Match.
🚨Wycombe defender Chris Forino has signed a new contract running until June 2024. 21-year-old signed for Wanderers in April 2021 and has impressed in his chances this season, including a goal in the FA Cup tie at Hartlepool. https://t.co/KyrxLocdwr
— Chairboys on the Net - Paul Lewis (@GasmanCOTN) December 11, 2021
The 21-year-old has since made league outings in the 1-0 away loss at Ipswich and the 1-0 away win at Charlton.
Speaking after the victory at the Valley on New Year’s Day, Grimmer said: “He’s come in and has been a great character around the place like all the young boys.
“First and foremost, the club looks at characters ahead of ability and I think that whole changing room is hungry, and I am sure he will not be the only one that will come through in the seasons to come.
“He is the next one following up in Anis’ footsteps and his story is incredible.
Thoroughly deserved Man of the Match to 21-year-old Chris Forino on his Football League debut - yet another young player Wycombe Wanderers have given the opportunity to shine 🌟 https://t.co/yZYkmzqkYz
— Chairboys on the Net - Paul Lewis (@GasmanCOTN) December 8, 2021
READ MORE: 'We’ll take it and we’ll move on' - Jack Grimmer reflects on Wycombe's win at Charlton
“He seems to take everything in his stride, and he doesn’t take anything for granted.
“He wants to learn and I think playing alongside Anthony [Stewart], JJ [Jacobson], Taf [Tafazolli], others and myself will help him learn more and it is a great club to be at and progress.”
The Scotsman has also revealed how playing alongside the youngster is currently helping him in his career.
21-year-old Chris Forino-Joseph confirmed on one-year deal by Wycombe Wanderers following trial and appearance in BCD friendly with Ebbsfleet.
— Chairboys on the Net - Paul Lewis (@GasmanCOTN) April 27, 2021
Central defender, previously on books of Brentford, Colchester Utd and Wingate & Finchley, initially joins #chairboys Development Squad. https://t.co/cLyMJCYCUR
Grimmer, who is in his third season with the club, has admitted that aiding a player of Forino’s quality is an important aspect to his game, as he hopes the 21-year-old can continue to flourish as the season progresses.
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He continued: “I think it’s a step forward in my career in how I can help the younger players around me.
“Since Chris has come in, he has done well, but, at the same time, it keeps my mind switched on as I’m talking to him throughout the game.
“It’s a good partnership that is working.
“Even though it didn’t work at Ipswich, I told him it was a learning curve as he didn’t put a foot wrong.
“He is in a good place, but like with any young player, they need time.”
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