Saturday’s draw at Crystal Palace, marking Nottingham Forest’s fourth consecutive game without a win, hasn’t dimmed their season’s positive aspects. Head coach Steve Cooper expressed his optimism, emphasizing the team’s performance improvement. He acknowledged the need to adhere to their plan and work harder, believing this approach will lead them to their desired level of success.
In line with previous matches, Forest displayed glimpses of their potential at Selhurst Park. They showcased well-constructed plays and dominated the first half, albeit lacking finishing precision in the final third. The team is still adapting to changes from the summer and the demands of English football. Nevertheless, there are promising signs that Forest is close to finding their rhythm.
With the international break now underway, it’s an appropriate time to assess the players’ performances in the early months of the season. Below is a player-by-player review for those who are still with the club:
Matt Turner:
The American goalkeeper secured his second clean sheet against Palace, rebounding from a challenging match against Brentford. Turner has generally performed as a dependable shot-stopper but has encountered some nervy moments. The competition from fellow summer signing Odysseas Vlachodimos keeps him on his toes.
Rating = B
Joe Worrall:
Despite being the team’s skipper, Worrall has been sidelined in the last three games, although he has remained in the squad. This is indicative of the fierce competition among center-backs rather than a reflection of his previous contributions. Worrall’s outstanding performance in the Chelsea win, shortly after the tragic loss of his uncle, highlights his commitment. He may not currently be in the starting lineup, but his leadership in the dressing room is invaluable.
Rating = B
Scott McKenna:
In contrast to Worrall, McKenna has not even made the squad in recent weeks. Despite an excellent showing at Stamford Bridge, he had a shaky start to the season. His grade reflects this inconsistency.
Rating = C+
Moussa Niakhate, who suffered a dislocated elbow early in the season, faces uncertainty regarding his return to the team after a suspension. His recent stint as a left-back in the Brentford match resulted in a subpar performance, leading to his needless red card. Murillo’s strong performance in that game and against Palace suggests he might secure the center-back position.
However, Niakhate’s long throw-ins remain a valuable asset for the team. Overall, his performance deserves a grade of B-.
Neco Williams, the Welshman, has struggled to find playing time, with his last appearance dating back to the Carabao Cup defeat against Burnley in August. Although he displayed promise at the end of the previous season, a fractured jaw and strong competition at full-back have limited his opportunities. His performance merits a grade of C.
Harry Toffolo earned praise from Cooper for his crossing abilities and made a positive impact when coming off the bench against Brentford. He continued to impress in subsequent games, warranting a grade of B+.
Willy Boly has been exceptional this season, consistently performing well in defense and even contributing offensively, scoring against Manchester United. His overall performance deserves an A+.
Serge Aurier’s experience and leadership remain crucial, though his consistency hasn’t matched last season’s standards. His versatility has been beneficial, with appearances as a right-sided center-back. An injury concern leaves some uncertainty, earning him a grade of B+.
Ola Aina stands out as one of Forest’s standout signings, displaying consistency in the early season. His absence in recent games has been noticeable, earning him a grade of A+.
Gonzalo Montiel’s performance has been mixed since joining the squad, showing technical ability but also experiencing difficulties. However, he had some positive moments coming off the bench, warranting a grade of B-.
Murillo has shown potential as a future superstar in just two games, displaying both exciting attacking skills and strong defensive capabilities, earning an A+.
Nuno Tavares faced a tough debut against Manchester City and has been sidelined due to injury since then, earning a grade of C+.
Ryan Yates faces competition in the midfield, but he’s known for giving his all and making a difference in games, earning a grade of B+.
Brandon Aguilera made his debut in the League Cup and impressed in training, needing patience for further opportunities, earning a grade of B.
Orel Mangala has improved in the Premier League and is a key part of the balanced midfield combination, earning an A-.
Cheikhou Kouyate provides a reliable option from the bench to help see out results, earning a grade of B-.
Morgan Gibbs-White has had a quiet start to the season, falling short of his high standards, but still capable of moments of brilliance, warranting a grade of B.
Danilo has faced injury setbacks this season, impacting his performance, earning a grade of B-.
Andrey Santos, on loan from Chelsea, is viewed as a bright talent, but his performance in the Carabao Cup didn’t provide a clear picture of his abilities, earning a grade of B-.
Nicolas Dominguez has adapted well to the Premier League and stands out as a class act, earning an A+.
Callum Hudson-Odoi made a fine debut with a goal and has shown his talent, though more consistency is needed, earning a grade of B.
Ibrahim Sangare is gradually adapting to English football and is part of a strong midfield trio, earning a grade of B+.
Anthony Elanga is an exciting talent with the potential to trouble opposition defenses, earning a grade of B+.
Taiwo Awoniyi’s absence due to injury is a significant blow, as he’s a key player both in terms of goal threat and overall contributions, earning an A+.
Chris Wood might need to step up as a starting striker in Awoniyi’s absence, with the potential to make an impact, earning a grade of B.
Divock Origi, a deadline day arrival, has made substitute appearances and is still adapting, with more potential to unlock, earning a grade of B-.