After his debut for Nottingham Forest on Sunday, Steve Cooper might be regretting not starting Odysseas Vlachodimos weeks ago.
The 29-year-old kept a clean sheet against Aston Villa on Sunday, after coming in to replace fellow international ‘keeper Matt Turner.
Vlachodimos made three saves, two punches and 15 passes showcasing his ability to distribute the ball to his Forest teammates.
The Greek international has had to be patient in making his debut, after joining the club on deadline day, but his performance on Sunday has certainly helped his cause for a start again this weekend.
READ: ‘Amazing’… 29-year-old credits Nottingham Forest man after big win
Vlachodimos demonstrates his qualities
It is safe to say the starting position in goal is Vlachodimos’ to lose after his display against Unai Emery’s side on Sunday.
Although he didn’t have much to deal with, he responded when called upon – with the 29-year-old demonstrating his quality.
Nothing against Turner but it’s now hard to see where his next outing comes from at Forest. Vlachodimos is a goalkeeper who plays international football and has also got experience in the Champions League.
With Cooper wanting to deploy a more possession-based style at the club this season, Vlachodimos certainly fits the criteria of a ‘keeper for that style with his impressive ball-playing qualities.
Sticking with Turner a regret?
Before Sunday, Turner was ever-present for the Reds after his arrival from Arsenal this summer, but after numerous mistakes, he was replaced by the Greek for the Villa clash last weekend.
However, Cooper spoke after the win confirming it was a tactical decision and not based on any mistakes made by the USMNT shot-stopper.
For now, it seems as though Vlachodimos has the number one spot nailed down, with Turner having a lot to do to regain his starting position.
Receive a digest of our best Nottingham Forest content each week direct to your mailbox
