Ange Postecoglou: Is the writing already on the wall for Forest boss?

The due diligence already completed towards Postecoglou’s possible replacement provides a clear indication of the jeopardy the Australian faces.

It would be hard for any manager to change the direction of travel in these circumstances.

Of course, Postecoglou will back himself to turn it around. That’s his nature.

Similarly, owner Marinakis wants him to succeed, having backed Postecoglou’s track record of winning silverware as one of the key factors in why he appointed him in the first place.

Indeed, prior to their previous Premier League outing against Newcastle, that resulted in a 2-0 loss, well-placed sources told BBC Sport that Postecoglou still maintained the immediate backing of the Forest owner, though there was a recognition that the result and manner of performance at St James’ Park would have a key influence on how Marinakis viewed his manager’s future moving forward.

Likewise, there is a feeling Postecoglou has not been helped by refereeing decisions during his reign.

For instance, during the Europa League defeat by FC Midtjylland – that saw supporters turn on Postecoglou – earlier this month, there was a feeling as many as 14 key decisions went against Forest.

But with that said, the internal scrutiny on Postecoglou is intense.

Postecoglou is expected to have the chance to give the Forest hierarchy something to think about against Chelsea this weekend.

Victory could see the under-fire coach take the first step towards what appears an unlikely road to recovery at Forest.

Lose the game, then the writing is already on the wall.