Boss Steve Cooper says he will welcome any pressure which comes Nottingham Forest’s way in the next few weeks - because it means they are in with a chance of promotion.
The Reds are three points below the play-off spots ahead of their return to action from the international break. Saturday’s trip to Blackpool marks the start of a 10-game sprint to the finish line, with the aim to clinch a top-six place.
Cooper has experience of what it takes to get there, having twice been in that position with Swansea City. And he is determined to stick to the style of play he has been working to instil at the City Ground, as well as thrive when the spotlight shines Forest’s way.
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“I hope pressure does come into it, because it means we will be where we want to be,” he told NottinghamshireLive. “An elite environment, a demanding environment, is about critical moments, important moments.
“Pressure does come with that. But we need to be a group of players and staff that don’t fear it - look forward to it, thrive on it, challenge it. That’s what we want to do.
“If the pressure increases from now in the next few weeks, then that means we’re doing some good things. If you ask us now if that’s what we want, we do!
“Let’s get going on the weekend. We’re looking no further than Blackpool. It’s a really tough game away from home, one we need to be 100 percent - and more - ready for. That’s where our approach is.
“Fundamentally, in the next 10 games, I think it’s going to be believing in what you do and how you play; trying to be the best version possible of that. Stick to your plan, and if the plan is the right one then hopefully it ends up working. I think that’s the most important thing.
“There’s going to be loads of things which come into the equation - playing a three-game week, eight games in a month, there will be some tired legs and a few knocks. You have to really stay focused and committed through what will be a heavy schedule.
“You have to take things as they come, but try to do it in a way you believe in, that’s our way. If we get it right, we believe we can be a handful with it. That’s the most important thing.”
