Old-School Forest Rely On Efficiency

They are closing in on Champs League spot, even if their tactics won't excite purists

- 

LONDON - There is something satisfyingly retro about Nottingham Forest's pursuit of Champions League qualification — and not just because they are trying to recreate the glory days of the late 1970s.

In an age when possession and high pressing have become mantras for many English Premier League managers, Forest boss Nuno Espirito Santo is bucking the trend spectacularly.

While some sides are easier on the eye, efficiency is his watchword. In their 28 league games, Forest average just 39.8 per cent possession — the lowest of the 20 clubs. They have made 9,355 passes, the lowest total in the top flight.

However, they have scored 45 goals, conceded just 33 and have 51 points. With 68.6 the average number of points required to finish fourth in the last five Premier League campaigns, Nuno's men are within sight of a return to Europe's top club competition for the first time in 45 years.