From 70 plus players to 70 plus million it's all change at Nottingham Forest in some important senses.
The stat that Forest signed more than 70 players between 2017 and 2021 became emblematic of the misplaced transfer strategy at the club. The flurry of arrivals did not exactly bring success. Cash thrown? Yes. Plan crafted? No.
That all changed last summer when Forest finally revamped their executive and recruitment structures with Dane Murphy coming in as chief executive, while George Syrianos and Andy Scott now head up a revamped recruitment team. More recently, Miltiadis Marinakis, son of owner Evangelos Marinakis, has taken on a more high profile role.
READ NEXT: Steven Gerrard decision could pave the way for Nottingham Forest transfer
READ MORE: Jesse Lingard reveals reason for Nottingham Forest transfer and sends message to Steve Cooper
The investment remained but with a strategy in place success followed. That was only one factor in promotion to the Premier League of course. Head coach Steve Cooper is undoubtedly the biggest factor, but the deliberate change in strategy showed Forest were a different club.
Now Forest are back in the Premier League at long last and the club feels like it could be set for a new golden era. The transfers continue - 12 so far and perhaps more to come - with well over £70m invested, but it feels like there is a plan around the player profile and where they fit in tactically.
The bond has been restored between club and fans and the whole city feels happier. It all starts again on Saturday at Newcastle, back in the big time. Have your say on how you're feeling about the Reds in our big forum survey below.
How are you feeling about the new season? Let us know in the comment section below...
READ NEXT:
- 'Woe is me' - Danny Mills tears into Dean Henderson after furious Man United comments
Jesse Lingard 'buzzing' after Man Utd exit as brilliant Nottingham Forest texts revealed
Dean Henderson slams Manchester United in explosive rant and reveals Erik ten Hag snub
Nottingham Forest transfer blow as target sees Man City deal 'completed'
