Nottingham Forest expect to make an announcement on Steve Cooper’s coaching set-up next week, following the departure of Steven Reid.
Reid has left his position on Cooper’s staff to take up a new challenge. In a statement announcing his decision, he said he plans to offer his services as a specialist coach “helping people improve their mental well-being, confidence, and leadership”.
Under-23s boss Andy Reid has been in Spain with Cooper and his squad on their pre-season training camp, and was in the dugout for their opening friendly against Coventry City. Given a number of younger players - such as Oli Hammond, Fin Back and Aaron Donnelly - had been part of the group which travelled, Cooper says it “made sense” to have the Irishman along.
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“We will be replacing Reidy,” the Forest head coach told NottinghamshireLive. “It’s not so much of a surprise to us, it’s been going on a little bit - like we, hopefully, explained in the statement.
“It’s sad to see him go. He’s been so important to our coaching team. He’s an excellent coach, and equally as a guy as well.
“But we fully support and respect him - me, particularly - on his next phase and his next chapter. We’ll stay in touch; we’re friends, and we’ll be friends now for a long time.
“We wish him well, as a club. But mine and his relationship will continue.
“He’s excited about what’s next. Whatever he does - and he’s pretty clear about it - he’ll be a success, that’s for sure.
“In terms of the coaching team, this isn’t something that’s been thrown on us quickly. It’s something we’ve planned for, and we’ll make an announcement next week.
“In terms of Andy Reid, it’s just made sense with so many young players in Spain - and we want to be close working with the academy. It’s been great to have him about.
“He’s part of the team anyway. Last year, he was very visible around the training ground, even though he was working with the 23s. It’s just been great to have him and the young boys with us.”
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