Paul Merson thinks beating Southampton could be enough for Nottingham Forest to secure Premier League survival.
The two sides meet in a relegation six-pointer at the City Ground on Monday night.
Really, neither side can afford to lose but if the Saints were to be on the wrong end of the result then snookers would be required.
Forest have to focus on themselves this time around. There has to come a time when they can’t rely on other teams underperforming to help them out.
Steve Cooper’s team have dropped back into the bottom three. Now, they have just four games to get themselves clear of relegation.
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Merson has been complimentary at some points this season and he thinks this game is massive for the Reds.
He told Sportskeeda: “This is an absolute cup final if ever there was one. If Nottingham Forest don’t win, turn the lights out for them. On the other hand, if they somehow manage to get three points, it might be enough for them.
“This is one of the biggest games in Forest’s history since the European Cup final in 1980 as they fought tooth and nail to return to the Prmeier League after a ridiculous amount of time away from the top division.”
Merson thinks Forest win against Southampton could be enough
It will be tight but it’s easy to see where Merson is coming from when he says that a win against Southampton could be enough for Forest.
Leeds have four mightily difficult fixtures left to play and they might not claim another victory all season.
Everton also have some tough games left to come but Forest have to take care of their own business first.
Beating Southampton would put Forest on 33 points, with 35 the total that has been mentioned as being required this season.
A win is absolutely vital on Monday night and if they get it, perhaps the Reds will edge closer towards another season playing in the Premier League.