Nottingham Forest have emerged as one of the Premier League’s surprise packages this season.
Several individuals may have predicted Nuno Espirito Santo’s side’s relegation this season following a poor 2023/24 campaign.
Last season, Forest had to wait until the final game to secure their Premier League place after a tumultuous season.
However, the Reds have been in excellent form this season, with 13 points already on the board and only goal difference holding them below Tottenham Hotspur in seventh place.
However, not everyone is persuaded that Forest can sustain their position in the top half of the standings.
What Alan Pardew Has Said About Nottingham Forest
Some of the Forest players have recently delivered some outstanding performances, and the Reds are flying high in the top half.
Seb Hutchinson, a commentator, praised Elliot Anderson for his effort against Crystal Palace on Monday night.
The former Newcastle midfielder is just one of the players that has performed admirably under Nuno this season.
However, speaking on Super Sport TV, former Premier League manager Alan Pardew has trashed Forest’s chances of remaining in the top half of the standings.
“They are in a false position, I absolutely agree with Tim [Sherwood], because that squad is definitely not good enough to be the top ten after 38 games,” according to him.
“But you know, when you look at the bottom of the table, Forest has gotten themselves a nice little distance, and believe me, when you are a manager of Nottingham Forest, you are looking there, not up there.
“And, you know, that’s a wonderful cushion for them, and it will provide some space. There will be some defeats on their journey. I’m not sure if they will get one on Friday night. They’re undoubtedly well prepared for Friday night. They might get another three points and be in the top eight.
“But, you know, realistically, they’re looking at another year of stability in the Premier League, more quality coming into the group, and then maybe a top ten finish.”
Forest should be applauded for their good start this season.
The Premier League is presently controlled by one team, with Manchester City having won the title in six of the last seven seasons.
And the money spent by the teams at the top of the table just serves to widen the gap between the sides.
However, Forest are being chastised by the likes of Pardew for their impressive start to the season.
Pardew claims Forest do not have a squad capable of maintaining this level for the rest of the season, yet this is a Forest side who defeated Liverpool despite making changes to their customary starting lineup.
