Forest Green Rovers have completed the signing of former Carlisle United attacker Omari Patrick on a free transfer ahead of the 2026/27 National League season.
What’s the deal with Patrick’s move?
The 30-year-old winger has joined Robbie Savage’s side after his release from League Two club Tranmere Rovers. The move was confirmed by Forest Green on Wednesday, with manager Savage calling it “a brilliant business.”
Savage revealed he spoke to Patrick’s mother on Tuesday to finalise the deal. “What an asset he’s going to be,” Savage said. “We beat off competition and had to move quickly.”
Patrick’s arrival sets up a reunion with Carlisle United in the new season. Forest Green will face the Blues at Brunton Park on September 15 before the return fixture at the New Lawn on February 23 - both midweek games.
Why does Patrick’s arrival matter for Forest Green?
Forest Green currently sit seventh in the National League with 81 points from 46 games, 27 points behind leaders York. Their recent form has dipped, with back-to-back losses including a 1-0 defeat at Boreham Wood on April 29.
Patrick brings Championship pedigree from his time at Carlisle, where he scored the Wembley equaliser in the 2022/23 play-off final as United beat Stockport County to win promotion. He netted 14 goals in 62 games across two spells at Brunton Park.
His arrival adds firepower to a side that has scored 82 goals but conceded 52 this season. With just two wins in their last five, Savage needs a spark - and Patrick could provide it.
What’s next for Forest Green and Patrick?
Patrick could make his Forest Green debut as early as September 15 when they visit Carlisle. The midweek fixture lands in the middle of a tough early-season run that includes trips to Wrexham and Chesterfield.
Savage’s side has lost their last two games and sits 27 points off the automatic promotion places. A strong start to 2026/27 will be key if Forest Green are to climb back into the top six.
The signing also marks Forest Green’s latest attempt to bounce back after a campaign that saw them finish 11 points adrift of the play-offs. With Patrick on board, the club will hope to tighten their defence and rediscover their attacking rhythm.
League standing: 7th in National League, 81 pts, 23W-12D-11L from 46 games, recent form WLWDW. Goals this season: 82 scored, 52 conceded (+30 goal difference). Title race: 27 points behind leaders York. Last result: Boreham Wood 1-0 Forest Green (2026-04-29). Recent form (last 5): 2W-0D-3L (LLWWL, most recent first); lost the last 2.
