Nottingham Forest’s head coach, Nuno Espirito Santo, has provided limited insight into the potential reinforcement of the team’s goalkeeping department ahead of the January transfer deadline. While the summer acquisitions of Matt Turner and Odysseas Vlachodimos were intended to solidify the goalkeeper position, their performances this season have sparked discussions about the necessity of another shot-stopper.
Initially planning to resist signing additional goalkeeping options this month, Forest seemed determined to rely on Turner and Vlachodimos as their primary and secondary choices, respectively. However, recent developments suggest a potential shift in this stance. Various goalkeepers, such as Kasper Schmeichel from Anderlecht, Peter Gulacsi from RB Leipzig, Sam Johnstone from Crystal Palace, Jose Sa from Wolverhampton Wanderers, and Keylor Navas from PSG, have been linked with moves to the City Ground. The outcome of these speculations remains uncertain, especially considering the club’s reluctance to make significant financial expenditures.
Nuno Espirito Santo, when questioned about the possibility of strengthening the goalkeeping position, maintained a degree of ambiguity, stating, “Anything can happen.” He acknowledged the numerous player links but emphasized that many were inaccurate.
Since Nuno’s arrival last month, Turner has been consistently chosen as the first-choice goalkeeper. Vlachodimos did start in FA Cup matches against Blackpool but found himself back on the bench in the recent 0-0 draw against Bristol City. Turner’s clean sheet in that game marked a positive development for Nuno, who views it as a timely confidence boost for the goalkeeper, especially with a challenging fixture against former club Arsenal on the horizon.
Nuno explained the decision to give Turner the opportunity to play against Bristol, emphasizing the importance of confidence for a goalkeeper. As a former goalkeeper himself, Nuno understands the significance of regular game time for improving performance, acknowledging that mistakes are part of the game but emphasizing the collective need for confidence and support within the team.
While Turner faces his former teammates from Arsenal, Nuno believes he doesn’t have a point to prove. The coach sees Turner’s experience as an asset, allowing him to provide inside information about his previous club. Despite potential insights, Nuno maintains that Turner’s primary role is to contribute positively to the team rather than trying to prove himself.
“He can give us some inside information, because he was there,” Nuno said. “He can give us some good input. But he does not have a point to prove.”
Nottingham Forest’s goalkeeping situation is under scrutiny, with speculation about potential additions before the transfer deadline. Nuno Espirito Santo remains open to possibilities, acknowledging the importance of confidence and teamwork in the goalkeeping position.
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