Nottingham Forest: Forget Premier League points deduction, says Nuno Espirito Santo

Nuno Espirito Santo has told his Nottingham Forest players to “forget about” the club’s points deduction for breaking financial rules and focus on their battle to avoid relegation.

They are now 18th, one point behind 17th-placed Luton, but have appealed against the decision.

“Who are we to say that is fair or unfair?” manager Nuno said.

“We have to focus on what we have to do, and what we have to do is on the pitch. This is the message: forget about everything and focus on our tasks so we get out of this situation.”

Forest play Crystal Palace at home on Saturday in their first match since the points deduction.

They are the second top-flight team to be punished for PSR breaches after Everton were penalised 10 points in November, which was reduced to six on appeal.

The Toffees, who are 16th and four points clear of Forest, are still awaiting the verdict on a second alleged breach of rules.

Luton winger Andros Townsend said uncertainty created by the points deductions “makes a mockery” of the top flight.

Nuno remains full of belief that his side will still stay up.

“The way we work, the way we play, the togetherness, the commitment of the players – I see it every day and that’s why I’m so confident,” Nuno said.

“It’s in our hands, it’s up to us to reverse the situation and that is to get points on the pitch and this is what we’re going to try on Saturday.

“What we have to do is stick together, everyone at the club, stick together – the back-up of our fans is going to be huge for us – and starting on Saturday at the City Ground, play football and win games.”