Preview of European Fixtures for Premier League Clubs on Thursday
Football writer Ben Bloom reviews the ongoing European campaigns of Aston Villa, Nottingham Forest, and Crystal Palace, and previews their upcoming matches in the UEFA Europa League and UEFA Conference League.
After two nights of UEFA Champions League action, the focus shifts to Thursday’s full schedule of fixtures in Europe’s secondary club tournaments.
Nottingham Forest's Promising Start Under Sean Dyche
Sean Dyche's first match as Nottingham Forest manager in a major European competition was last month’s 2-0 victory over Porto. Morgan Gibbs-White and Igor Jesus converted penalties, with Jesus' goal placing him joint top among this season's Europa League scorers with three goals.
This win marked Forest’s first European triumph since 1995, bringing relief to supporters following a turbulent 39-day spell under former manager Ange Postecoglou.
"That was Forest’s first European win since 1995 and it provided some much-needed joy for the club’s beleaguered fans after the tumultuous 39-day period with Ange Postecoglou at the helm."
The victory lifted Forest to 17th in the Europa League standings after an earlier surprising loss to Midtjylland.
Recent Premier League Form
- Forest have lost to AFC Bournemouth in their subsequent Premier League fixture.
- They then secured a 2-2 draw in a closely contested match against Manchester United.
"In their two Premier League matches since, Forest have lost to AFC Bournemouth and then pushed Manchester United close on Saturday before drawing 2-2."
Summary
Nottingham Forest’s strong European start under Sean Dyche contrasts with mixed Premier League results, reflecting a team rebuilding both domestically and continentally.
Author's summary: Sean Dyche’s Nottingham Forest has begun its European campaign with a notable win, bringing optimism despite uneven Premier League performances.