Nottingham Forest manager Nuno Espirito Santo dismissed talk of his team’s involvement in the Premier League title race, labeling it as speculation built on “ifs” ahead of their high-stakes showdown with Liverpool.
Forest have surged to joint second in the Premier League table following an impressive run of six consecutive wins, sparking discussions about their potential as dark horses in the title race.
Whether Nottingham Forest’s title aspirations could become a reality might depend heavily on the outcome of their crucial clash with Arne Slot’s league-leading side on Tuesday.
A win at the City Ground would bring Nottingham Forest within three points of Liverpool, thrusting them firmly into the title race conversation.
However, Nuno emphasized that Nottingham Forest must let their performances on the pitch do the talking.
“We have to play the games, we are here to compete against all the teams, I think we are doing well, nothing changes in our approach,” he said.
“It’s the same, more important than anything is we know what we can do, we know each other, our strengths, our weaknesses, let’s play the game.”
“If we start thinking about ifs…it’s if, if, if, if, that’s why we always try to approach how we are going to prepare ourselves, how we are going to play the game.”
“At the end of the game, there will be no ifs….I’m so sorry, I apologise.”
Arne Slot hailed Nuno and his Nottingham Forest team in his pre-match press conference, reminiscing about their surprising triumph over Liverpool in the reverse fixture last August.
Even Nuno admitted his surprise at Nottingham Forest’s remarkable turnaround, considering they only secured Premier League survival on the final day of last season.
“When we do things well, we should be pleased, but too many compliments can distract us, so we don’t want to pay too much attention,” he said.
“It was the beginning of the season, maybe it was a surprise, but it was a long time ago, many things have changed.”
“No one in this room could ever predict what is happening. It is the ambition and desire to do things well and the hard work of the players and commitment.”
“It’s continuing and we have to enjoy together what is happening, but no one can predict what is happening.”
“I see a group of players really committed to doing well. What can happen in the future we don’t know, but the proof is we have done it before.”
“We are improving through the competition, I truly believe the more time the players spend together the better they can play together.”
“I see a good group of people, more than players, that want to do things together. This is important, the togetherness, this is what I really value.”
Nottingham Forest confirmed the signing of experienced goalkeeper Wayne Hennessey on a short-term contract, running until the end of the season.
The 37-year-old, whose previous contract expired at the end of last season, remained at the club during his injury recovery and will now challenge Matz Sels and Carlos Miguel for the starting goalkeeper spot.
