Latest Nottingham Forest news as the Reds await the decision of an appeal hearing over points punishment for FFP breach.
Nottingham Forest have been advised to take advantage of the clarity that will come with resolving their points deduction predicament as they prepare for a big game.
The Reds anticipate to receive the results of their appeal hearing about their four-point deduction for violating financial rules this week. Forest will know where they stand and how many points they have before facing demoted Sheffield United on Saturday.
The Profitability and Sustainability Rules breach controversy has hung over the club since January, when it was charged. Head coach Nuno Espirito Santo has stated unequivocally that the ambiguity about how many points they have has influenced his players. Putting the subject to rest, whatever the outcome, should aid the Reds ahead of their trip to Bramall Lane.
“The club are hopeful (of a successful appeal); they appealed for that reason,” Forest reporter Sarah Clapson stated on NottinghamshireLive’s Garibaldi Red podcast. “Whether they receive any points back or not remains to be seen.
“The most important thing is to have everything in order and for Forest to understand where they stand and what needs to be done in the remaining games. And if the club receives any points back, that’s a bonus.
Pat Lally, a Reds fan, remarked, “If we get two points back, we’ll be three points ahead.” That is a win. That is huge at this time.
“You don’t want to count on getting any of them back. But if we do, it’ll be a great plus. “I believe we will stay up.”
Nuno’s side is one point above the relegation zone with three games remaining following Sunday’s 2-0 defeat to Manchester City. They performed well against the reigning champs, but they realize they must replicate that performance in their remaining games.
Lally added: “Even before Sheffield United were relegated, you knew they’d show up because it’s Forest and they’ve had a history together. They will show up, as will the fans, and there will be some former Forest players present.
“I think it will be really difficult. I’m just praying Taiwo (Awoniyi) is on the bench; last 10 minutes, equaliser or winner, calling it now.
“It’s strange because you can go from being so deflated, like after the Everton game, to Sunday and thinking, ooh, play like this and we’ll be great. They haven’t showed it on a consistent basis, but if they do for the last three games, we’ll be alright.”
Clapson continued, “A lot of it will be about who handles the strain. Can the players handle the pressure that comes with these types of games, especially away from home?
“We know what a difference the supporters make at City Ground. It will be considerably different traveling to Sheffield United, who will most likely be determined to send Forest down to Turf Moor.
“The mental aspect of things will be vital, as will how the players deal with it all. That’s when you need huge characters.
“However, there is a lot of optimism and confidence to take from Sunday. That is the template and the standard. Do it again and again, and Forest will have a good chance of staying up.
