In Wilson, has one of the best in the business arrived?

MIXED FORTUNES AT RANGERS, BUT HIS TIME AT FOREST WAS A HUGE SUCCESS

- By Sean McCormick

ROSS Wilson arrives at Newcastle with his reputation back on track as one of the best sporting directors in the business after a two-year stay at Nottingham Forest.

Wilson worked well with ex-Forest boss Nuno Espirito Santo and owner Evangelos Marinakis to help spearhead their push to qualify for the Champions League last term.

They ultimately fell short but did secure European football for the first time in 30 years at the City Ground - a remarkable achievement for a club in just their third season back in the Premier League after a 23-year absence.

Wilson quietly oversaw some excellent recruitment last summer, notably signing Elliot Anderson from Newcastle, which helped to transform Forest from relegation candidates to European qualification.

Speaking last season, Nuno said of Forest's recruitment: "Recruitment is more important than it has ever been. It is not only about tactical understanding and ability, but the human aspect and where you want to go.

"They have to fit into our culture. It is also about avoiding mistakes, and being absolutely sure that when the player comes in he's a piece that fits into your puzzle."

The Journal has also been told that Wilson took a more considered, sensible approach to signings at Forest and focused more on bringing in young talent as he reshaped their transfer strategy.

Forest didn’t want Wilson to leave but had little choice after Newcastle triggered his release. That alone speaks volumes of the legacy he has left behind at the City Ground and the qualities United will hope he brings to St James’ Park.