Fornah 'won't take anything for granted' after 'massive shift' in personal life
Tyrese Fornah says he will ‘never take anything for granted’ after opening up about both his challenging upbringing and the recent arrival of his first baby.
The 26-year-old joined Cobblers on a three-year deal last summer and started the season brightly but he has barely featured in 2026, firstly due to an abductor injury and then the birth of his son.
He’s started the last two games though, and following Saturday’s defeat to Leyton Orient, he spoke about the support of his close ones and the sacrifices they have made to allow him to flourish on the pitch.
“My missus is an angel,” said Fornah, speaking before Tuesday’s game against Port Vale. “She’s been really good and my little one’s grandparents on my partner’s side have been amazing, especially for me. I’m a professional footballer and I need sleep and rest and they’re having to take on the sacrifices that people don’t see.
"I go out the on the pitch and when things are good everyone talks about me and the team but they don’t speak about the people behind the scenes that keep us going and my support network is what keeps me going and keeps me happy.
"That gives me the joy to express myself on the pitch, especially as someone that likes to create. If your mind isn’t free, you can’t do half the things you want to do out on the pitch. My missus has been absolutely amazing and I’m just so thankful that she’s in my life and I have a good family.”
Fornah missed the recent 0-0 draw with Exeter to be with his wife for the birth of their son before he returned against Lincoln a few days later.
"There’s been a massive shift because it's not about me, it’s about my son and my partner and my family,” Fornah added. “They come before me. If they’re not OK, I’m not OK, and it’s all about giving them the life that I didn’t have as a young boy growing up.
"I come from a council estate in East London and we didn’t have a lot but I always had the mental strength to keep going and I never lost faith or doubt in myself and that’s what got me here. I stayed true to myself.
"I don’t ever take anything for granted. The gaffer and me had a private conversation recently and I told him that I’m ready to give him and the club everything between now and the end of the season. I feel good mentally and I’m back from a long injury.
"I want to give everything I can for the boys and the staff because everyone has been so supportive when I’ve struggled and I’m incredibly thankful to be playing for this amazing football club.”