What does 'Metallica', Holly Spirit and EPL have in common? Much more than you think
Reading Time: 2min | Tue. 07.01.25. | 20:06
The answer is Nuno Espirito Santo, and his high-flying Nottingham Forest
Next week's Premier League clash between Nottingham Forest and Liverpool at City Ground will surprisingly offer a battle for the top of the EPL table.
It's been almost 45 years since the last time two of those were nemesis, evenly matched rivals who fought for the English top division title.
Somehow, the Tricky Trees, led by Nuno Espirito Santo (Nuno Holly Spirit, which his surname means when translated from Portuguese), have climbed so high on the EPL table this season. They are just six points below the league leaders Reds - who they beat earlier in the reverse fixture at Anfield - and only behind second-placed Arsenal on goal difference. A potential win in the upcoming game could be such a massive statement for Forest.
Still, their boss doesn't want to talk about their title credentials, as he plays down numerous praises. Instead, being aware of it or not - he uses a part of the legendary 'Metallica' song to describe the philosophy behind the success.
"I don't know, maybe the end of the season I'll take a look at the table. I promise you guys I will," he smiled after a 3-0 win over Wolves.
"We are trying to build something nice together. We have to enjoy the journey, and nothing else matters. The table doesn't matter. We just keep on going."
Forest are the only team to beat Liverpool in the Premier League this season and should they do the double over Arne Slot's side, it will be more than just a statement of intent.
"If they beat Liverpool they are in the title race," said former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher on Sky Sports.
"What I would say right now is if the Champions League goes to the top five positions they have got one hell of a chance."
