Nottingham Forest have been confirmed as the oldest club in the Football League.
Following Notts County’s relegation from League Two at the weekend, there has been widespread confusion over who has taken the title. This has sparked huge debate between the two clubs in question; the Reds and Stoke City.
The Potters felt that they would take the mantle, with their badge stating they were founded in 1863. This was two years before the Reds were founded in 1865.
However, football historian Mark Metcalf did some digging which changed the complexion completely. As quoted in the Nottingham Post, Metcalf said: “There is no evidence to suggest that Stoke City were formed in 1863.
“Official records show that a club known as Stoke Ramblers was formed in October 1868 when they played their first game.
“That club later merged with Stoke Victoria Cricket Club and eventually became Stoke City.
“Basically, it means that Nottingham Forest are the second-oldest club in the top four divisions and will become the oldest if Notts County are relegated.”
To avoid further debate, one Reds supporter emailed the English Football League seeking official confirmation either way. It’s fair to say that he would’ve been rather pleased with the response.
The Nottingham Post also got in touch with the EFL for official confirmation, and received a statement of the same wording.
It stated: “We can confirm that Nottingham Forest are the oldest club.
“There appears to be some misinformation online, regarding Stoke’s foundation date.
“However, we can confirm that Forest will be the oldest club, formed at an unknown date in 1865, and documented as playing its first games in 1866.”
‘Let’s not get carried away’
Having missed out on the Championship play-offs this season, the Reds will be happy to take any accolade they can get their hands on. Although, many supporters have voiced their embarrassment at claiming the title at the expense of their near neighbours.
They will be hoping they have more to celebrate come the end of the 2019/20 campaign under the management of Martin O’Neill.
If Notts County gain immediate promotion back to the Football League, they will reclaim the title which they previously held for over 130 years.
Here’s a taste of what some Reds supporters have been saying on social media.
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