Forest's bloated squad concerns new boss Nuno

Jonathan Veal
Press Association
Nuno Espirito Santo is ready for the challenge that lies ahead
Nuno Espirito Santo is ready for the challenge that lies ahead

New Nottingham Forest boss Nuno Espirito Santo is concerned about the size of the squad he has inherited — but insists everyone has a clean slate. 

Nuno, 49, is back in the Premier League after replacing Steve Cooper on Wednesday and is tasked with leading Forest away from the relegation zone. 

Given the club's activity in the transfer market over the last 18 months, the Portuguese has a bloated squad of 30 first-team players to work with. 

The former Wolves and Tottenham boss said: "It's big, being honest, it's big for different situations. 

"But now is not the moment to address that issue — we have every player in the building now and we are counting on all of them. 

"Then we will come to situations where we have time to address that situation. Honestly, what I tell you guys and what I have told the players, it is a chance for everybody.

"What I saw is this normal situation of a player who before was not engaged but now is committed. That can give us a plus. 

"Some players have medical issues but we had everybody involved. 

"In terms of numbers, I have to be honest with you, I have never managed a squad of 30 players so that is a challenge for us also. 

"For the players, I told them it is now a new chance for everybody, it is an opportunity for players who before didn't play. It is a new chance for everybody. 

"My door is open for everybody. What I want is everybody involved, everybody committed so we can have more options and it can make us stronger."

Nuno says the situation may be addressed when the January window opens next week. 

But he wants everybody on board for a hectic Christmas schedule, which kicks off with a home clash against Bournemouth on Saturday. 

He added: "Let’s see in January, it's not the moment to think about that. 

"These are the players who can change the situation. We have three big matches now before we can change anything. Bournemouth, Newcastle, Man United."

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Premier LeagueNottingham Forest