Steve Cooper under pressure as Nottingham Forest manager?

By Ben Sully
Published: 01 April 2023 12:27 AM

Nottingham Forest boss Steve Cooper is reportedly under growing pressure to keep his job ahead of Saturday's Premier League meeting with Wolverhampton Wanderers.

Nottingham Forest manager Steve Cooper is reportedly under pressure to keep his job.

Cooper was appointed Forest boss in September 2021 with the club situated at the bottom of the Championship table.

The Welshman managed to instigate a remarkable turnaround, guiding Forest to promotion via the playoffs.

After struggling in the opening months of the current season, Cooper's position was called into question in October.

However, owner Evangelos Marinakis backed the former Swansea City manager by handing him a new three-year contract.

Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis pictured in February 2019 © Reuters

The pressure looked to have been alleviated as his side began to pick up points, but their form has dropped off again in the last couple of months.

Since beating Leeds United 1-0 on February 5, Forest have picked up just two points from six matches, leaving them languishing in 16th place.

With the East Midlands club just two points clear of the drop zone, according to The Telegraph, Cooper's position as Forest manager is under threat.

Although Cooper is believed to be a popular figure among Forest fans, the club's hierarchy are considering his future.

Forest have spent over £175m on 30 new players over the last two transfer windows, with Marinakis keen to establish the club as a stable Premier League side.

Nottingham Forest manager Steve Cooper before the match on February 18, 2023 © Reuters

With relegation a real threat, the owner may decide to make a decision if they are unable to beat Wolverhampton Wanderers later today.

Preparations for the home fixture have not been helped by the club's lengthy injury list, which now includes Chris Wood.

Cooper confirmed in his pre-match press conference that the forward is ruled out for the rest of the season after picking up an injury during the international break.

After Forest play host to Wolves they will head on their travels to face Leeds United on Tuesday, before they go up against Aston Villa next weekend.