Tom Knowles is set to leave Forest Green Rovers at the conclusion of his contract, following a disagreement over a contractual clause that the club believed they could activate.
The 27-year-old winger-turned-full back was initially thought to have an automatic extension option. However, it has been clarified that the clause only applied if Forest Green Rovers achieved promotion to League Two, which did not materialize.
Knowles joined Forest Green as the first signing under Steve Cotterill in the summer of 2024. He quickly became an integral figure, earning the Fans' Player of the Season award in 2025/26 after an impressive campaign marked by double-digit goals. His standout moment came with a spectacular 94th-minute free-kick against Eastleigh—an audacious strike near the near post that sealed a 1-0 victory and earned him Goal of the Season honors.
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Throughout the season, Knowles was a reliable presence, appearing in 45 of 47 league games under manager Robbie Savage. Despite his accolades, Savage remarked, “Knowlesy won player of the season; he’s been brilliant, but I think Kyle and Mendy have been better,” highlighting the competitive team environment.
Notably, Knowles was one of two players to miss penalties during the 2024/25 play-off semi-final shootout against Southend United. Despite that setback, he remained a fan favorite due to his consistent performances and commitment on the pitch.
Forest Green Rovers now face the challenge of replacing a key player who made significant contributions both on and off the field during his tenure.