Paul Heckingbottom losing his job at Sheffield United and replaced by Chris Wilder.
Whilst it took far longer than usual for the first top tier managerial casualty this campaign, you can be sure you will never have to wait long for the next one.
Indeed, once one Premier League manager is sacked, it is usually a bit like a logjam getting cleared, as you then end up with a rapid succession of further sackings, as the concerns / panic set in
Two weeks after Sheffield United pressed the button, it is now universally reported across the media, including on BBC Sport (see below), that Nottingham Forest have done the same.
Steve Cooper sacked by Forest and seemingly set to be replaced by Nuno.
After a very respectable 13 points from their opening 11 Premier League matches, Steve Cooper has overseen five defeats and one draw in the last six
Ironically, that one draw / point was at Nuno’s former club Wolves.
Now, the new Forest manager is set to face Bournemouth on Saturday at the City Ground, before a first Forest away game at Newcastle United on Boxing Day.
***Indeed, whilst I was writing this, the official statement has now been released, at least that is, confirming the sacking.
Nottingham Forest official announcement – 19 December 2023:
‘Steve Cooper has today been relieved of his duties as head coach of Nottingham Forest, following a spell of over two years in charge.
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.
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.”
The Club will make a further announcement on the appointment of a new head coach in due course.’
