Chris Wood is optimistic that Nottingham Forest will secure their first win under manager Ange Postecoglou “sooner rather than later.” The club, which Postecoglou took charge of last month, has faced a challenging start with a 3-0 Premier League defeat against Arsenal and an unexpected exit from the EFL Cup after losing 3-2 to Swansea City.
Despite these setbacks, pressure is already mounting on the Australian manager to produce results. The team’s journey continued with draws against Burnley in the Premier League and Real Betis in the Europa League. Wood, a key player for Forest, expressed confidence during an interview, stating that the squad is quickly adapting to Postecoglou’s playing style, which differs significantly from that of former manager Nuno Espirito Santo.
Wood commented on how the team is creating more chances and dominating possession, despite the need for actual victories to validate their progress. He believes the positive changes are evident and that the wins will come as players fully embrace the new approach. Postecoglou, who previously won the Europa League with Tottenham Hotspur, will lead his side in a crucial match against Danish champions Midtjylland at the City Ground this Friday.
Reflecting on the club’s history, Wood underscored how Forest once claimed back-to-back European Cups under legendary manager Brian Clough, signalling an ambition that resonates with Postecoglou’s vision for the team. The forward praised the manager’s winning mentality and the belief instilled within the squad to become a formidable presence in the Premier League.
At 33, Wood has experienced a late bloom in his career, having scored the majority of his Premier League goals post-25. He credits his journey through various loan spells with honing his skills and resilience, shaping him into the player he is today.
Wood also touched on the idea of unity among Australian players abroad, noting how they tend to support each other amidst the sport’s competitive nature. He acknowledged the strong footing that football has given him in life, expressing gratitude for the opportunities it has provided him. Overall, Wood and the team remain focused on refining their performance and achieving the results that reflect their potential.