Bombshell line after bombshell line dropped in press conference

NUNO Espirito Santo is rarely a man to give much away, so to be at the centre of successive outspoken press conferences is quite the about-turn for the Nottingham Forest head coach.

- By SARAH CLAPSON

The Portuguese's latest meeting with the media was absolutely remarkable. Following speculation about his future earlier in the day, Nuno dropped bombshell line after bombshell line ahead of tomorrow's trip to face Crystal Palace (2pm kickoff).

Without provocation, he admitted his relationship with owner Evangelos Marinakis had changed. With reference to rumours his job is under threat, he suggested there is 'no smoke without fire'.

Jaws dropped around the press suite at the City Ground. Those present were left stunned. It was a no-holds-barred, brutally-honest 14-minute Q&A which has thrown Nuno's future firmly into doubt.

Perhaps the signs were there that something was going to kick off when the 51-year-old arrived more than 10 minutes late. Nuno is punctual; always on time and ready to go.