SUPER Eagles pair Taiwo Awoniyi and Ola Aina will soon be working under a new manager after Nottingham Forest fired Steve Cooper as manager.
The sacking of Cooper was confirmed today amid speculation that former Wolves boss Nuno Espirito Santo has been lined up as his replacement.
“Steve Cooper has today been relieved of his duties as head coach of Nottingham Forest, following a spell of over two years in charge,” the club announced tonight.
“Cooper departs The City Ground having played an integral part in Forest’s return to the Premier League, cementing himself firmly into the Club’s rich history after guiding The Reds back into England’s top-flight.
“Appointed as head coach in September 2021, Steve galvanised Forest’s extraordinary rise up the Championship table and into the play-offs, culminating in a memorable win over Huddersfield Town at Wembley Stadium in May 2022. He then went on to manage the team for 55 matches in the Premier League.”
There was also speculation last season that 44-year-old Cooper would be sacked when the club were struggling, but he turned the situation around and guided them to safety.
Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis said: “Everyone at Nottingham Forest would like to thank Steve for his superb contribution to our football club. His achievement in guiding Forest back to the Premier League will undoubtedly remain an iconic moment in the Club’s history.
“We thank Steve for his dedication and commitment during his time with us, as well as the incredible connection he forged with our supporters and the city of Nottingham.
“Steve will always remain a friend of the Club and will forever be welcome at The City Ground. We wish him well in his future endeavours.”
Cooper has left Forest one spot and five points clear of the relegation zone, and the club said they would make an an announcement on his replacement ‘in due course’.
