Nottingham Forest head coach Nuno Espirito Santo credited Saturday’s late comeback victory over Aston Villa at the City ground to the incredible ‘heart and desire’ shown by his players during the game, Soccernet.football reports.
Forest looked to be on course to suffering a home defeat after John Duran headed home in the 63rd minute. However, a late show from Nikola Milenkovic and Anthony Elanga completely turned the game on its head, ultimately handing the hosts all three points.
Following the statement win, Forest now occupy 4th place on the Premier League table, overtaking struggling champions Manchester City ahead of their derby clash against local rivals Manchester United.
Speaking to reporters after the ‘huge’ win, Nuno was especially pleased with the attitude and reaction of his players throughout the game, even after falling and staying behind till very late in the second half.
“It is a big moment. It is a huge moment. After the team went down the reaction was good,” the Forest boss told Sky Sports. “The players gave everything and had a desire to go beyond football.
“The fans were a big part in the game today. They helped the team and it goes beyond football, moments like this. It is about the heart and desire of the boys.
“We played against a very good team. After the goal, the game opened up and the spaces were there. It pleases me and I give huge credit to them. I gave them another day off! It is easier to work on good results.
“We try try every day to build something nice that we can identify with the club, with the city. It is an important moment that we feel when things go against you and you react… that is what I appreciate the most.
“I think it is about enjoying. We are working very hard, We are working with clear plans of improvement and building the team.
“We are competing with all the clubs. Our way is about organisation and belief. It is about taking advantage of the moment we have, and the boys did well today.”