Nottingham Forest away is next up for the Eagles, our final game before the World Cup break. Although at the bottom of the table, Forest are far from adrift – just 4 points separate them from Leicester in 14th.
So after a heady summer of over 20 signings, and a first half of the season back in the Premier League, how are Forest fans feeling? What is their take on this final match up before the break? To get an inside track I spoke to lifelong Forest fan, Rex Walker
TEB – So Rex, how are you feeling about the season so far?
RW – Overall I am a bit disappointed by how many points we have. That said, this time last year I would have given my right nut to be where we are now. Forest’s defining moment of the season so far was the second half against Bournemouth at home – we were 2- 0 up at half time and contriving to lose 2-3. Given Forest are three points behind Bournemouth who sit in 17th.
TEB – What is the ambition for the season? Is it entirely about survival or?
RW – Or what? Are you mad?
TEB – Possibly, speaking of which – you bought an insane number of players over the summer. We know all about Kouyate but who’s doing the business and who might be a difference maker in part 2 of the season?
RW – Orel Mangala looked to have exactly the composure and quality we needed in front of the back four and has been a big loss whilst injured. Gibbs-White has been our most consistent attacking threat.
TEB – How do you think the World Cup is going to affect you?
RW – Cooper has a really impressive coaching pedigree so you have to think that having a long period with a relatively high proportion of the squad will be beneficial. I would do a Cloughie though and take them on the lash for 10 days.
(TEB – see also Pearson, Pardew…)
TEB – If I gave you a magic lamp, who would you like to sign in January?
RW – Des Walker, Roy Keane and Stuart Pearce (1992 Vintage)
TEB- What’s your views on Palace this season?
RW – Defining mid-table.
TEB – Ha! There is still time for us to get that European push going!
Cheers Rex, here’s to a top match, see you at the City Ground!
