Sheffield United rivals Nottingham Forest make big Steve Cooper decision as ex-Wolves boss flies in

Sheffield United's relegation rivals Nottingham Forest have reached a decision on the future of manager Steve Cooper after a run of one win in 13 games saw them fall to fourth bottom of the Premier League table. Cooper was sacked earlier today, with former Wolves and Spurs boss Nuno Espírito Santo reportedly lined up to replace him. Nuno, most recently in charge of Saudi Pro League club Al-Ittihad who sacked him months after winning the title, is reportedly flying to England for talks over taking over from Cooper at the City Ground. Forest are five points clear of third-bottom Luton Town, who have a game in hand on them, having spent a fortune on players to try and establish themselves at Premier League level.

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Cooper helped secure Forest's return to the top-flight for the first time in 23 years, beating United in an explosive play-off semi-final before overcoming Huddersfield Town in the final at Wembley, and masterminded an escape from relegation in their first season back in the Premier League. He remains a popular figure amongst Forest fans but his relationship with owner Evangelos Marinakis has reportedly become strained in recent weeks.

“Everyone at Nottingham Forest would like to thank Steve for his superb contribution to our football club," Marinakis said. "His achievement in guiding Forest back to the Premier League will undoubtedly remain an iconic moment in the club’s history.

“We thank Steve for his dedication and commitment during his time with us, as well as the incredible connection he forged with our supporters and the city of Nottingham. Steve will always remain a friend of the club and will forever be welcome at the City Ground. We wish him well in his future endeavours.”

United, who are bottom of the Premier League table but level on points with Burnley, are six behind Forest and will have to reign some clubs in to have any chance of surviving in the top-flight this season. Everton are a place ahead of Forest but are flying up the table after wiping out their 10-point deduction, which they have appealed, while Crystal Palace are eight points clear of the drop zone.