Nuno Espirito Santo Addresses Nottingham Forest's Title Hopes Before Liverpool Showdown

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Nuno Espirito Santo has downplayed Nottingham Forest's chances of clinching the Premier League title as they prepare to face Liverpool. Currently third in the standings, Forest is tied with Arsenal on points and trails Arne Slot's team by six. They have won their last six league matches, and a victory over Liverpool would match their longest winning streak of seven games, achieved four times previously.

Forest remains the only team to have defeated Liverpool in the league this season. They handed Slot his first loss as Liverpool manager with a 1-0 win in September, marking Forest's first Premier League victory at Anfield since February 1969. Despite this achievement, Nuno remains focused on the upcoming game rather than title talk.

Nuno emphasised the importance of maintaining focus and consistency. "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," he stated. He stressed that they aim to ignore external distractions and maintain their consistent approach.

Nuno also mentioned that excessive praise could be distracting for his team. "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 explained. He believes in focusing on daily tasks and competing against all teams with a steady mindset.

Regarding Liverpool's squad, Nuno acknowledged their quality across all positions. "Salah, Diaz, Gakpo, Mac Allister, Gravenberch, Van Dijk, Konate, Trent... quality all over the place. A fantastic team," he remarked. He recognised their impressive performances not only in the Premier League but also in European competitions.

Nuno did not devise a special strategy for Mohamed Salah despite his remarkable form this season. Salah has scored two goals in four top-flight appearances against Forest and has been involved in 31 goals (18 goals and 13 assists) in 19 matches this season. Notably, 16 of his goals have come after halftime.

Approach Against Liverpool

Nuno highlighted that understanding both strengths and weaknesses within his team is crucial for facing Liverpool effectively. "We know what we can do and how we want to do things," he said confidently. He emphasised playing with respect against such a formidable opponent like Liverpool.

The upcoming match promises to be challenging for Forest as they aim to extend their winning streak while maintaining focus amidst growing expectations around them.