Nottingham Forest manager Nuno Espírito Santo left pundit Martin Keown momentarily speechless during a post-match interview following his team’s gritty 0-0 draw with Arsenal on Wednesday. The result, which bolstered Forest’s Champions League ambitions, came after Nuno stuck with an unchanged starting lineup despite a recent 4-3 loss to Newcastle United. The decision paid off as Forest tightened their defense after conceding six goals in their previous two matches, securing a crucial point at the City Ground.
During TNT Sports’ coverage, Keown questioned Nuno’s tactical shift from a five-man defense—used in Forest’s dominant 7-0 victory over Brighton—to a four-man backline against Arsenal. The former Arsenal defender speculated whether the adjustment aimed to bolster midfield presence, asking, “What was the reason for that? Did you need more bodies in the midfield area?”
Nuno’s response was decisive: “Since Arsenal didn’t field a traditional striker and [Mikel] Merino occupied that role, we didn’t need an extra defender. The overload would occur in midfield, so our focus was on containing that area when play dropped back.” His explanation, delivered with a knowing smile, left Keown pausing before replying, “Yeah, OK.”
The draw keeps Forest third in the Premier League, six points behind second-place Arsenal and four ahead of sixth-placed Newcastle. While the result strengthens Forest’s European aspirations, Keown warned Arsenal not to grow complacent after their title hopes dimmed. “Even if the title’s out of reach, they can’t afford to collapse. If their scoring drought continues, slipping out of the top four is a real risk. Tonight’s point could prove vital in keeping Forest at bay,” he remarked.
Nuno’s tactical acumen and his team’s resilient performance underscored Forest’s growing credentials as Champions League contenders, setting the stage for a tense final stretch of the season.
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