Nottingham Forest have emerged as one of the surprise packages in the Premier League this season, defying expectations with a strong start to the campaign.
Few would have predicted such form from the Reds, particularly after last season’s narrow escape from relegation.
Nuno Espirito Santo’s side had a turbulent 2023/24 campaign, only securing their top-flight status on the final day. Many expected Forest to struggle again this term, with some tipping them for the drop.
However, Forest have hit the ground running. Thirteen points from their opening fixtures have put them level with Tottenham Hotspur, with only goal difference keeping them just outside the top seven.
Their performances have been a breath of fresh air, but not everyone believes the club can maintain this momentum throughout the season.
What Alan Pardew has said about Nottingham Forest:
Several Forest players have earned plaudits for their contributions to the team’s impressive start. Elliot Anderson, a summer arrival from Newcastle, has particularly caught the eye.
Commentator Seb Hutchinson singled out the midfielder’s display against Crystal Palace on Monday night, praising the young talent’s influence on proceedings.
Despite these encouraging signs, former Premier League manager Alan Pardew has cast doubt on Forest’s ability to sustain their early form.
Speaking on Super Sport TV, Pardew suggested that Forest’s current position in the top half of the table might not be sustainable.
“They are in a false position, I absolutely agree with Tim [Sherwood], because that squad is definitely not good enough to be the top ten after 38 games,” said Pardew.
“But you know, when you look at the bottom of the table, now, Forest have got themselves a nice little distance so, and trust me, when you are a manager of Nottingham Forest you are looking there, rather than up there.
“And, you know, that’s a nice cushion for them, and it will give a little space. There’s going to be some defeats coming their way. I don’t know if they’ll get one on Friday night. They’re probably well set for Friday night. They could get another three points and find themselves in the top eight.
“But, you know, realistically, they’re looking at another year of stability in the Premier League, more quality coming into the group, and then maybe a top ten finish.”
Forest deserve credit for their strong start:
Pardew’s remarks may have sparked debate, but Forest’s start to the season is nothing short of impressive.
Manchester City’s dominance in recent years—with six titles in the last seven seasons—has widened the financial gap between the league’s top clubs and those further down the table.
In that context, Forest’s early success stands out. Despite Pardew’s scepticism, this is a side that has already shown resilience and tactical flexibility. The Reds pulled off a memorable victory over Liverpool earlier in the campaign, even while rotating their squad.
The versatility of Morgan Gibbs-White has also been key. His performance in the win against Fulham helped Forest claim crucial points, showing that the team can compete at a high level even when not at full strength.
Pardew’s critique—suggesting Forest will struggle to sustain their top-half form—feels somewhat dismissive, especially given the quality the squad has demonstrated.
Forest supporters may also be quick to point out that Pardew’s last two managerial stints, in Bulgaria and Greece, were a far cry from the demands of Premier League football.
As things stand, Forest are enjoying a bright start, and with Nuno Espirito Santo at the helm, they look well equipped to build on this promising foundation. Whether or not they finish in the top ten remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: they have already proven a few doubters wrong.