Jermaine Jenas has admitted he was very impressed with three Nottingham Forest on Saturday. The Reds drew 1-1 with Wolves at Molineux to end a run of four defeats in succession.
Much has been made of Steve Cooper in recent days. After a 5-0 defeat to Fulham in midweek, speculation has mounted over the future of the Forest head coach.
On Saturday, he made seven changes to his team. He reverted back to his system, which deploys three central defenders and two wing-backs as he strived for solidity.
Jenas impressed with three Forest players
The Forest-supporting pundit was on Match of the Day this weekend in place of Alan Shearer. That gave him a chance to take a look at Forest and he was impressed with three Forest players.
Murillo, Moussa Niakhate and Willy Boly started as the three central defenders and they all did exceptionally well. Jenas was impressed with their performances and raved about them on Saturday.
He said on Match of the Day: “It just gives them that added bit of security. It makes them a little bit more solid and I thought as a defensive three Murillo, Niakhate and Boly they were really solid. Murillo in particular he had a very good game”
Forest have to persist with three centre-backs on Friday
The Reds look far more organised with three central defenders. It also allows two wing-backs to push higher up the pitch and aid with attacks.
Jenas was right to laud the three Forest defenders on Saturday. The Reds trio were in fine form and in truth, they probably deserved to be on the winning side.
Still, it was a point gained for Forest at Wolves. They stopped the rot and ultimately, that was the order of the day for the Reds – and Cooper – after the disaster of midweek.
Forest face Tottenham on Friday night and this shape looks like the best option once again.
Jenas also had some kind words for Cooper on Match of the Day this week and he still holds Forest close to his heart.
The City Ground promises to be rocking on Friday night and hopefully, the Reds can get a much-needed victory.
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