Paul Merson has suggested Nottingham Forest's Premier League clash with AFC Bournemouth today is a 'cup final' for both sides.
The Reds have suffered back-to-back defeats at the hands of Tottenham and Manchester City. Harry Kane's double at the City Ground last weekend handed Spurs all three points before Erling Haaland's hat-trick set Pep Guardiola's side on their way to a 6-0 victory.
Bournemouth sit below the Reds on goal difference and come into today's game on the back of four league games without a win. Wednesday's 0-0 home draw with Wolves put an end to three straight defeats - including a 9-0 loss that resulted in Scott Parker losing his job.
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Giving his predictions to Sportskeeda, Merson has highlighted the potential difficulty Steve Cooper may have with 21 new signings made across the summer. He said: "This is a cup final - it's a massive game for both teams. I personally think 35 points will be enough for teams this season to avoid relegation.
"I don't see these teams winning a lot of games. Nottingham Forest have brought in so many players, and it's going to take time for them to gel as a team. I like the manager, but he now has a massive task on his hands.
"If Forest play like they have done so far in the Premier League, they'll do well this weekend. You've got to give Bournemouth their due for keeping a clean sheet against Wolves, but these are the bread-and-butter games.
"They're not winning matches, and that's a big worry for them. Forest are the better team at the moment and should be able to win this game."
Merson has predicted a 2-0 win for Cooper's men.
What are your predictions for Forest's clash with Bournemouth? Tell us your thoughts in the comment section...
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