Alan Shearer has hailed the performance of Nottingham Forest goalkeeper Keylor Navas. The Costa Rican made his debut against Leeds United as the Reds defeated them 1-0. Shearer has now named him in his Official Premier League Team of the Week.
The former Premier League title-winner hasn’t had to put too many Forest players in his teams this year. On Sunday, however, Navas stole the show with a breathtaking first-half display that led to Reds supporters purring at what is to come.
Shearer hailed the heroics of Navas against Leeds. After the performance, many supporters will be left wondering how on earth the Reds managed to pull off such a coup. Forest signed the 36-year-old from PSG on a six-month loan.
Navas was called into action after just a couple of minutes. Luis Sinisterra left Willy Boly stranded and produced a lovely effort with the outside of his right boot. Navas was equal to it and also leapt off the ground to pounce on the loose ball.
Shearer told the official Premier League website: “Made a string of fine saves to keep a clean sheet and help Nottingham Forest to victory on his debut.”
Shearer hailed performance of Forest goalkeeper Navas
Navas was immense against Leeds. Without him, the visitors might have found themselves with a comfortable half-time lead. Instead, the Reds were in front and after a rousing Steve Cooper team talk, Forest forced Leeds into a panicked second 45 minutes.
Forest are certainly leaving no stone unturned in their quest to stay in the Premier League. With Dean Henderson currently injured, it might have been nice for Wayne Hennessey to deputise and continue between the posts. Forest, however, decided to sign a truly elite goalkeeper instead.
It’s nice to see the Reds getting some recognition in the Team of the Week. It probably highlights how below-par the Forest performance was on Sunday that despite winning the game, it’s the goalkeeper who has earned the most praise.
The Reds will take it though. Mission survival is firmly in their sights now and a few more victories in the Premier League could see them get over the line with time to spare.