Nottingham Forest fans have given a huge welcome to Evangelos Marinakis' statement.
The Forest owner has today ended mounting speculation regarding the future of Steve Cooper after last night's defeat to Leeds United extended the team's winless run to eight games.
While Forest moved to scotch yesterday's reports that Patrick Vieira was a contender to replace Cooper, Marinakis has this lunchtime come out and called for both an end to the rumours and for everyone to get behind the 43-year-old.
His statement read: “No one denies that our Club is in a difficult position in the Premier League, but we wish to end the speculation and the false and disruptive reporting in the media to confirm that Steve Cooper remains our manager at Nottingham Forest.
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“We have all been disappointed with recent performances and it is very clear that a lot of hard work needs to be done to address this urgently. Results and performances must improve immediately.
“Now is the time for everyone connected with our club, from us as owners, to the board, our supporters, backroom staff, coaches and players - to come together and fight to secure our status in the Premier League.
“There can be no time for distractions, rumours and speculation. There is only time for hard work, determination, a commitment from Steve and the players to getting the results we need and, of course, the continued magnificent support of the fans of Nottingham Forest.”
Fans have been responded:
@Jennyintoots: In Coops we trust
@loose_tip: It’s good that finally a statement has been put out there to put an end at the moment at least to the speculation. Can’t be great for anyone wondering if this is the gaffers last game or not and added pressure on the players that they must perform to get the results #nffc
@weirdbeard21: Thank you for bucking the trend and remaining loyal to a man that has done so much for our club. Proud to be a Forest fan #CooperIn #NFFC #COYR
@AnffcA: Brilliant statement #nffc
@nottm_forest: It’s a strong statement and we, as fans, have surely influenced the #NFFC hierarchy to stick with the Head Coach
@ReissNFFC: I don’t like how this ownership operates at times but no one can deny that they’ve backed Steve Cooper. A relief & it’s going to be tough for me but 9 games to fight to stay in this league with the majority behind it. The players need to start producing for these fans. #NFFC
@glennhancock: Correct and important decision. EM publicly backing Cooper for the second time this season. Sacking him would’ve almost certainly condemned us to relegation (Burnley sacked Sean Dyche in mid April 2022). I can’t wait to hear the reception #NFFC fans give Cooper at Villa Park!
@buenpondo: Form is temporary Class is permanent #nffc
@Jayreds1: EM deserves massive credit, he’s backed the club and Cooper from the start, unreal owner
@MrRichPalmer: Still have my doubts we will stay up. But I'll still support the club and the manager! #NFFC Hope Steve will bring us back up!!
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