In 1888, he returned to his home town to join Nottingham Forest. He was the youngest ever Nottingham Forest player and at age 16 he scored three goals on his debut on 17 February 1882. In one season, he scored 85 goals for Forest. During the 1889–90 season also played three matches for Nottingham rivals Notts County, Lindsley was drafted in as cover for James Oswald in a match against Aston Villa, Villa were unhappy as he was not registered, they appealed and Notts were fined £5, Lindley appealed but the fine was increased to £30 and Notts were deducted 2 points.