Nottingham Forest boss Steve Cooper has written an open letter to Reds fans following promotion to the Premier League.
The Reds won promotion into the top-flight for the first time in 23 years after beating Huddersfield Town 1-0 at Wembley Stadium.
In his letter to supporters, Cooper praised the Reds' incredible support throughout the season as well as at the National Stadium and the following day in a trophy presentation on Old Market Square.
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"It has been a week since two truly wonderful days in the life of our club and after all that has happened, and the emotions we have been through, I wanted to speak directly to every one of you supporters to offer – above all – my heartfelt thanks," Cooper wrote.
"What we have achieved this season has only been made possible by the unity of Forest. The ownership led by Mr Marinakis has supported us all the way. The staff at the City Ground led by Dane Murphy, and those at the Nigel Doughty Academy, have gone above and beyond. My coaching staff have shown the best of their expertise and dedication. Our players have been simply outstanding. All of it has been driven by you – our supporters - who have shown everyone at Forest, and the wider world, why this is one of the great football clubs of England, and Europe.
"You made the City Ground a place like no other. You drove us on with packed away ends everywhere we went. Then at Wembley, it was the same again – an irresistible force that pushed the players to give the very best of themselves. Monday’s celebrations in the city were every bit as passionate. The pictures from the Old Market Square will have told those who do not know, just what devotion and loyalty Forest inspires."
Cooper has formed an inseparable relationship with fans. He poses for pictures before and after games, as well as the routine fist pump celebrations after each win. Having joined Forest back in September, he has truly embedded himself into the Nottingham community and enjoys the bond he shares with the supporters.
While the Forest boss admitted he is struck by "the kindness and warmth of Forest fans" shown through face to face meetings as well as "the many letters and emails" he has received, he remembers one supporter-written letter which has stuck with him.
He said: "I cannot mention everyone who has been in touch but there is one letter that I received this year that I could not get out of my mind, and which I feel gets to the essence of our club. The correspondent began by explaining that they would not be offering their name because they had no need of a reply, or any wish to share a reply further afield. Rather they wanted to tell me their own Forest story. It was a deeply personal story of losing a beloved family member this season and how amid the sadness, they had found some joy in the way the team had performed.
"It was generous, open and inspiring. Whoever you are, I want you to know I read your letter to the players the day before the Peterborough game to remind us all of what we play for. Thank you.
"I wish you all a good break this summer and please know that everyone at Forest is working hard every day to improve our club. See you in the Premier League."
