Opinion: Nottingham Forest Could Have Unearthed A Gem In Defensive Powerhouse

Nottingham Forest have struggled for defensive stability at times in the last couple of seasons in the Premier League, and Steve Cooper will be hoping that his side can build on some strong performances in defence in recent weeks moving forwards, as they head towards the potentially season-defining festive period.

The Reds have shown defensive improvement in recent weeks, as they’ve drawn 1-1 with in-form Brentford, whilst also holding Crystal Palace to a goalless draw at Selhurst Park not so long ago. Not only did they hold the Eagles to a draw, but Nottingham Forest had the better of the chances in that clash in front of the Sky Sports cameras, and were unlucky not to come away from that game with three points to show for their efforts.

It’s no coincidence that Nottingham Forest’s recent upturn in form has been down to the inclusion of summer signing, Murillo, who has looked nothing short of sensational in the heart of the Reds defence. He signed from Brazilian club Corinthians in the summer, and has wasted no time in making a positive impact with the Premier League side. At the age of 21, he’s still got plenty of room to develop as a player in senior football, and Nottingham Forest could have unearthed a gem in English football if his first few performances are anything to go by.

Not only has he shown himself to be a tough player to get through for opposition attackers, but he’s shown much-needed calmness and composure on the ball in tricky situations, which will be pleasing to see for both Steve Cooper and the Nottingham Forest supporters. Murillo gave supporters a glimpse of his exciting potential in the recent stalemate with Crystal Palace, as he drove forward with the ball at pace to turn defence into attack for the Reds, and almost scored at the end of a lung-busting run from just inside his own half.

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This is exactly the sort of player that Nottingham Forest need in their team right now, as Murillo will only go from strength to strength moving forwards, especially if he can benefit from playing alongside the likes of Joe Worrall and Willy Boly, both of whom could complement the new addition to their team perfectly moving forwards in the 2023/24 season.

Forest have some tricky fixtures coming up as we head towards the festive period, and it’ll be interesting to see how they cope. The Reds finished 16th in the top-flight standings last season, and conceded 68 goals, which was only outdone by three other Premier League teams last term. Fast forward to this year’s league campaign, and Forest have only conceded ten goals from their opening eight league matches, which makes for more encouraging reading.

If you’re a keen bettor, then you could be tempted to wager your funds on Nottingham Forest to finish in the top-ten in the Premier League this season. BonusCodeBets, a site recommending tips alongside the best sign-up offers, revealed that Forest’s odds for a top ten finish is something to keep an eye on, especially if they can build on these recent impressive showings.

Below, you’ll find other betting odds for other teams on this same betting market that can be found on bet365.