Nottingham Forest Manager Nuno Espirito Santo Discusses Anniversary, Brentford Match, and Squad Fitness

Nottingham Forest manager Nuno Espirito Santo addressed the media in anticipation of Saturday’s Premier League fixture against Brentford, scheduled for 15:00 GMT. The following are the main points from his press conference: Nuno stated that midfielder Danilo is “closer to working with us,” while Ibrahima Sangare “has not joined the group yet.” The manager emphasized that Forest “need them as soon as possible.” He also mentioned additional “issues” concerning squad fitness, stating: “We have a lot of things to assess and problems we had in the previous game. We still have tomorrow to assess the players and then go to London.” Reflecting on his one-year anniversary as Forest’s manager, he commented: “Time flies. Feeling good. It started difficult but it is good. I am enjoying it. You never know what is going to happen. Last season, there were a lot of things to start to solve. We did well and now is the beginning of something we want to do together.” When asked if he permits himself to savor positive moments, he responded: “Of course. We enjoy working – we enjoy competing. This is what really pushes us. After the game, you immediately start thinking about the next one and that is enjoyable. Life is not just smiles. The tough moments are also important to be there.” He considered last weekend’s victory against Aston Villa to be significant, stating: “Nights like last week make it all worth it because the fans are happy and singing even when the match is over. This is what we work for.” Regarding the challenge presented by the Bees, he commented: “Very good team, very strong at home and doing very well. Defensively we have to be really good, solid and compact. Set-pieces, throw ins… they have many ways to create danger and opportunities. They can achieve goals in the first minute so we have to start concentrated. We need to play our game and cause them problems too.”