Nottingham Forest star explains what Michael Oliver said to him on Tuesday, he was impressed

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Nottingham Forest star Sam Surridge has explained to TalkSPORT what referee Michael Oliver said to him during Tuesday’s penalty shootout win over Sheffield United.

The striker assisted Brennan Johnson for his 18th goal of the season. Although that goal put the Reds 1-0 up on the night, they did lose the game 2-1.

Surridge was withdrawn in the second half of normal time. Keinan Davis came onto the pitch and provided the Reds with a different option in Steve Cooper’s attack.

The 23-year-old has been a magnificent addition to the Forest ranks since he checked in at the club. He’s found the net eight times, despite only starting five Championship fixtures for the Reds.

Surridge was quizzed on the atmosphere on Trentside after Tuesday’s famous victory. He claimed that even FIFA referee Oliver was impressed with the City Ground support.

He told TalkSPORT: “You see it all the time. I’ve been here as a player with other clubs and it’s a special place.

“It’s the atmosphere and everything. Even Michael Oliver said to me last night, “It’s loud, isn’t it?”, the atmosphere is unreal.”

With Davis now fit, Surridge might find himself sweating on a place in the team for the final on Sunday week.

He did claim an assist against Sheffield United though. His work rate is excellent and perhaps Cooper will make the bold call to keep him in the team at Wembley.

Surridge already looks a useful signing for Forest and gets the club

The striker has been in fine form since checking in at the City Ground. He arrived at the club amid some uncertainty from the fan base given a less than impressive goalscoring record.

Cooper has got a tune out of him though. On TalkSPORT he came across as an articulate bloke and as someone who is desperate to do well for Forest during his time at the club.

Surridge is only 23 and that bodes well. He’s still learning his trade and naturally, the future looks bright for the youngster at the City Ground.

There is still one more game to go. Surridge is fully aware that the job isn’t done but he will be desperate to help Forest reach promotion to the Premier League next week.

The City Ground faithful have been magnificent this season. Oliver referees at Premier League grounds each week and the fact that he enjoyed the atmosphere speaks volumes.