Nottingham Forest faced Bournemouth at the City Ground on Saturday and the team that was selected was almost identical to last season.
Matz Sels kept his place in goal, with a back four of Neco Williams, Murillo, Willy Boly and Ola Aina.
Ibrahim Sangare – who will hope to be like a new signing this season – partnered Danilo in midfield, with Ryan Yates replacing the Brazilian after his cruel injury early on.
Callum Hudson-Odoi and Anthony Elanga occupied the flanks, with Morgan Gibbs-White supplying Chris Wood through the middle.
It was refreshing to see that level of continuity, with four of the club’s new signings on the bench for the visit of the Cherries.
As disappointing as it was to lose two points so late in the day, it was good to see some positive performances and one played proved why he’s been sought-after this summer.
Neco Williams stars for Nottingham Forest vs Bournemouth
Atalanta bid £21 million for Williams this summer but Forest politely rejected the offer from the Serie A outfit.
That move would have meant Champions League football for Williams but Forest want around £27 million for the Welshman.
In the eyes of some supporters, that valuation might seem steep but ultimately he proved why Forest rate him so highly on Saturday.
The player was in fine form for the Reds and produced some standout statistics.
According to Who Scored, he made five tackles, made two interceptions and completed one clearance during the game.
He completed 81.3% of the 32 passes he attempted and also completed two accurate crosses during the 90 minutes he spent on the pitch.
Williams also completed two key passes and also won two headers during the first game of the campaign.
Williams still has vast potential
The 23-year-old has been something of a slow burner at Forest. He signed from Liverpool for £17 million and was tasked with replacing Djed Spence in the team.
It’s fair to say that his first season wasn’t overly successful. He wasn’t always considered the first choice with Serge Aurier often given the nod.
Last season he did kick on a little bit and probably finished the season as one of the top performers – and certainly one of the most improved.
Williams has now picked up where he left off during the 2023/24 campaign and there’s still an upward trajectory that he could go on.
Nuno Espirito Santo could be the perfect manager for Williams and hopefully, he can continue improving this season and thrive under regular football.
Atalanta might move on from Williams but on his latest performance, it’s easy to see why Forest are willing to hold out for £27 million.
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