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Ange Postecoglou has already broken a Nottingham Forest record in just his third game

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Ange Postecoglou has wasted no time in switching Nottingham Forest’s style from a counterattacking team to a high-tempo side and a high-possession side, and it has led to him breaking a record.

The Australian has his set principles, and he enjoys playing a certain brand of football. Something he has not been shy about admitting.

The transition period has not been smooth, with defeats to Arsenal in the Premier League and Swansea City in the Carabao Cup coming in his first two matches.

However, when Postecoglou took charge of his third match against Burnley, there was a notable shift and plenty of positives to take despite the 1-1 draw.

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Wayne Rooney says Ange will be happy at his team’s progress regardless of the disappointing result.

Meanwhile, Paul Merson has noticed similarities between Forest and last season’s Tottenham.

Postecoglou’s style is starting to come through in full, and this latest statistic highlights the major changes that are already in action.

Ange Postecoglou applauding Nottingham Forest fans
Photo by George Wood/Getty Images

Nottingham Forest set club record high in average possession

Nottingham Forest under Nuno Espirito Santo looked to soak up pressure and hit teams on the break, and Ange Postecoglou wants to change that.

The Australian prefers his teams to hold onto the ball and dominate games with possession and plenty of chances.

His work on the training ground appears to be working, and Forest’s latest match against Burnley resulted in a new record for the club.

The Tricky Trees averaged 63.3% possession against Burnley, their highest in a Premier League match since their return to the division in 2022, according to the Premier League.

Unfortunately, Postecoglou’s side were unable to secure all three points, but it is a major positive in his short tenure so far.

The statistic is a clear example of the stylistic changes already taking place at Nottingham Forest, and there will be plenty of players who will love the transformation.

Elliot Anderson can shine in this system

Elliot Anderson will be one of the biggest beneficiaries of Ange Postecoglou’s football, as the midfielder enjoys getting on the ball and dictating play.

Against Burnley, Anderson completed more passes than anyone else in the match, with a total of 99. He also created two chances and completed 19 passes into the final third.

Elliot Anderson in action for Nottingham Forest
Photo by George Wood/Getty Images

The England international will be one of Ange’s most important players this season, as his ability to recycle play and get on the ball will lead to the Garibaldi maintaining possession for longer periods of the game.

Anderson is set to get his first taste of European football for Forest on Wednesday night, and he’ll be hoping to be just as effective at helping his side keep the ball.