Nottingham Forest hope to feel the benefits of strengthened squad ties when the season resumes this week.
The Reds’ team spirit has never been in question, but it has taken a while for a new-look group to get to know each other - both on and off the pitch - following a summer overhaul. And in that sense, midfielder Ryan Yates believes the opportunity afforded by the World Cup break can pay off.
Players have been able to spend valuable time on the training ground working with head coach Steve Cooper, while a week-long camp in Greece also allowed for some team bonding. Four friendlies played as part of preparations for the restart yielded mixed results and performances, but Forest ended with a win last Friday as they beat Valencia 2-1.
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“It’s the first time we’ve had this kind of break, so it was a little bit strange. But I’ve thoroughly enjoyed it,” Yates told NottinghamshireLive.
“We’ve definitely made the most of the work we’ve done. To finish on a high was really good, and we’ve really enjoyed the experience.
“It’s definitely helped us get to know each other better. The week away in Athens was good. We spent a lot of time around the management staff and all really got to know each other, because we’ve had a lot of new faces. Hopefully it’s been a blessing in disguise for ourselves, and hopefully we can kick on.
“We had more numbers come in than most teams in the summer, so it was really good to have that time together. Especially for me, getting to know a few of the new faces better and have conversations which you probably wouldn’t have if you are just training, training, training, game. It’s been really good in that sense.
“It was a tough final test. Valencia are a fantastic team and a great opponent, especially when they have possession.
“There was a lot of learning. It was nice to get a win under our belt, ready to really kick on now in the cup and then in the league.”
A trip to face Blackburn Rovers in the Carabao Cup is first up for Cooper’s side, on Wednesday night. Their first league game back is away to Manchester United on December 27.
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