Nottingham Forest suffered a comprehensive defeat to Arsenal on Saturday, but it’s not a result that should define their season.
Coming off the back of a 3-1 loss to Newcastle, Forest’s defensive solidity has clearly wavered in recent weeks, an issue that manager Nuno Espírito Santo will look to address in training.
Espírito Santo has hinted at a renewed focus on defensive organisation this week after a performance in which several players fell short of their usual standards.
Against a side as potent as Arsenal, below-par displays across the pitch made a positive result an impossibility.
One of the players under scrutiny was James Ward-Prowse, who struggled in his first start after six weeks out of the side.
While fans voiced their frustrations, the midfielder’s lack of match sharpness highlighted the team’s broader disjointed nature, with key absences and fitness issues taking their toll.
Robbie Mustoe Pinpoints Forest’s Key Miss
CBS Sports pundit Robbie Mustoe believes Forest’s decision to leave Chris Wood on the bench was a significant factor in their struggles at the Emirates.
Wood, who had travelled to New Zealand for international duty, was deemed unfit to start and managed just 20 minutes as a substitute.
Speaking on The 2 Robbies podcast, Mustoe said: “It was tough for Forest, they had Chris Wood on the bench after international duty. They really missed him, to be honest; they had no answer to Arsenal.”
Chris Wood’s Importance to Forest’s Campaign
While Taiwo Awoniyi showed flashes of promise against Arsenal, Forest clearly missed the presence and impact of Wood, who has been pivotal this season.
The New Zealand international has scored eight goals so far and remains Forest’s talisman at the top end of the pitch.
Wood’s ability to hold up the ball and provide a physical presence was sorely lacking against Arsenal. As Forest prepare to host Ipswich Town at the City Ground next weekend, ensuring Wood’s fitness will be a priority.
Despite the back-to-back defeats, Forest’s season remains on track with 19 points from 12 games.
The signs of progress are evident, but Mustoe’s observation holds weight—Forest are undeniably a stronger side when Wood is in the starting XI.
If the Reds can keep him fit, they’ll be well-positioned to maintain their momentum and push for a strong finish this season.
