In his latest column, The Debrief, Adam Bate analyses how Nuno Espirito Santo has brought clarity at Nottingham Forest by restoring the counter-attacking threat that is his trademark; watch Nottingham Forest vs Man Utd live on Sky Sports PL this Saturday at 5.30pm
By Adam Bate, Comment and Analysis @ghostgoal
On Boxing Day, in Nuno Espirito Santo’s first away game in charge, Nottingham Forest became the first team to score three goals against Newcastle United at St James’ Park since Manchester City in August of last year – and even City did not win.
This was the first time that Forest had scored three goals away from home in a Premier League game this century. In his very first attempt, Nuno matched Forest’s total number of away wins this season. Indeed, he has matched the total for last season too.
It was hugely impressive, Chris Wood cutting through the defence against his former club to score a hat-trick. In Morgan Gibbs-White, Anthony Elanga and Callum Hudson-Odoi, there was quality support for the striker, while the defence held firm to secure the win.
A run of one win from 14 games had many fearing for their Premier League future. It is why Steve Cooper was replaced. But on this evidence, Nuno seems to have a clear vision for how Forest can play. Others will already be worried they could pull away from danger.
But should this really be a surprise?
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