Nottingham Forest boss Nuno Espírito Santo has sent a clear message to his players, warning them to brace for a fierce backlash from a wounded Crystal Palace this weekend.
The Eagles were left humiliated in a brutal 4-1 M23 derby thrashing by Brighton on Wednesday night, a result that new manager Oliver Glasner labelled simply "not good enough."
But rather than see a vulnerable opponent, Nuno anticipates a dramatic reaction from the South London club when they arrive at Selhurst Park. He is adamant his Forest side must be ready for the storm.
Nuno's Pre-Match Mind Games
Speaking ahead of the crucial Premier League clash, the former Tottenham and Wolves manager displayed his tactical acumen, focusing on the psychological aspect of the game. He dismissed any notion that Palace would be an easy target after their midweek collapse.
"We expect a reaction. Always when a team comes from a bad result, the next one is a chance to change things," Nuno stated emphatically.
"So we have to be aware of that. We have to compete well. It's going to be a tough match."
Glasner's Palace Under Early Scrutiny
The heavy defeat to Brighton was a harsh reality check for Glasner, who replaced the popular Roy Hodgson just last month. The Austrian manager conceded his team was second best in every department, from tackles and duels to overall desire.
This public criticism from their new boss, combined with the derby day embarrassment, sets the stage for a potentially volatile atmosphere at Selhurst Park. Nuno's Forest will walk into a cauldron where the home players are desperate to make amends and win back the favour of their frustrated supporters.
The stage is set for a classic Premier League battle: a home team seeking redemption against an away side warned to expect exactly that.
