Nottingham Forest can begin anticipating the summer transfer window, having virtually guaranteed Premier League football for the next season. While it’s uncommon to find joy after a loss, Forest supporters can be forgiven for feeling a sense of excitement on Saturday night.
Luton Town’s loss to West Ham United effectively ensured Nottingham Forest’s safety before their match against Chelsea even began. Despite Forest ultimately losing 3-2, failing to secure a point that would have guaranteed survival, the team can approach the final day with confidence. Only an unlikely turn of events in terms of goal difference could now jeopardize their position, providing reassurance for Nuno Espirito Santo and his team.
Forest can now start to look ahead to a third successive Premier League campaign – and look to find some signings for next season
Forest have now had two scrapes with the relegation battle and the hope will be that a positive summer window can help prevent similar battles in a year’s time.
Forest will require additional attacking options to complement Chris Wood and Taiwo Awoniyi in their quest for more goal-scoring prowess. According to The Sunday Mirror (12/05, p65), Forest have been presented with an opportunity to acquire Marvin Ducksch from Werder Bremen. Ducksch has previously been linked with a £13 million move to Forest, but no agreement materialized. However, the latest reports suggest that Ducksch’s price has decreased, with a purported £5 million release clause in his contract that could be triggered this summer.
