Steve Cooper sends warning to Nottingham Forest fans over Premier League survival

Nottingham Forest manager Steve Cooper has told fans that the team would take time to establish itself as a Premier League mainstay.

“This season is not going to be easy,” he stated, adding, “Anyone who believes it will be is mistaken.” That is not our mindset. It takes years to develop a club, and we are only in our second season back.”

Despite a difficult start to their second campaign in the top flight, Cooper remains optimistic about the future, but he admitted: “It’s a rocky road. Look at Brighton in their first few years back, and look at where they are now. We hope we can do that, but it takes time.”

Cooper also acknowledged the need for improvement behind the scenes. “There’s a lot of change with the idea of trying to improve. But it doesn’t just happen. It’ll take time to be the club we want to be.”

Cooper reflected on Forest’s improved performance this season, particularly on the road, ahead of Sunday’s trip to Liverpool. “Some of our performances have been good, but you can’t say they’ve been great when we don’t win.” “There has been progress since last season,” he remarked.

He did agree, however, that playing at Anfield is a major task. “I was in Liverpool for the Europa League game on Thursday, and going to Anfield is a challenge in and of itself.” It’s certainly up there among the most difficult Premier League games. We must commit to being flawless on the day.”

Sir Jim Ratcliffe considers fresh Graham Potter approach at Man Utd after private meeting

Ratcliffe is expected to overhaul the club’s support staff once he is in situ at Old Trafford, with the search for a new sporting director believed to be in progress. And although previous reports have indicated Ten Hag’s job is safe, a potential successor to the Dutchman has now been touted.

According to The Sun, Potter is highly regarded by Sir David Brailsford, Ratcliffe’s right-hand man, and might be considered by Ineos if a change in the dugout is required.

Potter, who is still unsigned after being fired by Chelsea in April, was reportedly courted by Ratcliffe’s other club, OGC Nice, earlier this year. Potter met with Ineos privately in May and was receptive to the prospect of working with them, according to Foot Mercato, but an arrangement did not materialize.

Despite his rocky six-month time at Stamford Bridge, Potter’s reputation remains intact, and the 48-year-old is currently in contention for the Napoli post alongside Antonio Conte.

If their demand for a minority stake is granted in the coming weeks, it remains to be seen if Ineos will be willing to make a managerial change. While some reports indicate Ten Hag is not under danger right now, the former Ajax manager oversaw the club’s worst start to a season in 37 years prior to consecutive victories over Brentford and Sheffield United.

Despite his rocky six-month time at Stamford Bridge, Potter’s reputation remains intact, and the 48-year-old is currently in contention for the Napoli post alongside Antonio Conte.