Cooper fires rallying message to Nottingham Forest stars ahead of Brighton clash

25 November 2023 , 04:30

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Steve Cooper has urged his Nottingham Forest players to build on their good start (Image: MI News/NurPhoto/REX/Shutterstock)

Nottingham Forest boss Steve Cooper is keen for his team to make their mark in the upcoming clash against Brighton.

Despite a solid start to the season, with 13 points from their first 12 games, Cooper feels that Forest could have done even better - their 3-2 loss at West Ham in their last match primary evidence. He said: "I'm sitting here now knowing that we could and should have more points and we missed a couple of good opportunities to take points, but I also know that this time last season we were bottom of the league."

Cooper wants his team to stay motivated and continue improving, but also not lose sight of their progress. He added: "Let's have the motivation to keep trying to improve and pick up more points than what we might have done last season, but also don't get too carried away and lose sight of where we've come from and where we're at."

The Forest boss is aware of Brighton's strengths but wants his team to be the main influence on the game. He stated: "We've got to be ready, they've got some really good players playing in the brand of football they play and we are aware of that, but we want the most influencing factor of the game to be on our contribution and on what we do."

Cooper emphasised the importance of sticking to principles in order to achieve their goals. He said: "If we're trying to become something and be a certain way, it's on us to do that and you only do that by sticking to a set of principles week in, week out."

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In terms of team news, striker Taiwo Awoniyi will be out for "months" due to a groin injury, while Anthony Elanga, Murillo and Danilo are doubtful. "Anthony (Elanga) had a scan just after the West Ham game and had a bit of a medial knee injury, but he's progressing well and is back out training," Cooper added.

"Murillo unfortunately had a setback with his hamstring at West Ham. That was a blow for him because he's doing well and he's a young player who we're enjoying giving an opportunity to. Danilo also limped off with an ankle sprain at the end of the game too.

"Callum (Hudson-Odoi) is just about to join back in training. He's been on the grass a little bit doing the final stages of rehab and hopefully in the coming weeks he can be available. We never look for excuses, we will never dwell on it, we will focus on the players who will be available and that's where our attention lies whilst supporting the guys who are injured."

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