- Young winds up rival fans
- Veteran references 2000s pop classic
- Forest denied three penalties
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In the words of Justin Timberlake from his 2002 album Justified, Young essentially told Forest to 'Cry Me a River' over their three penalty appeals that were waved away during Everton's 2-0 win in a crucial Premier League relegation 'six-pointer' at Goodison Park.
Getty ImagesForest wanted penalties for three perceived infringements by Young, twice in the first half - an supposed foul on Giovanni Reyna and an alleged handball - and once in the second - a challenge on Callum Hudson-Odoi. None were awarded. The result was huge in the battle between them to stay out of the bottom three, with 16th place Everton pulling four points clear of relegation as a result of their win, leaving 17th place Forest only one point safe. After the game, Forest shockingly questioned the integrity of VAR Stuart Attwell by highlighting their disdain at him being an apparent fan of relegation rivals Luton. Yet it has come to light there was never a formal complaint or request from Forest to change Attwell before the game kicked off.
The aggrieved club released another statement on Monday morning about the penalties they felt they should have had: "Nottingham Forest has today submitted a formal request to the PGMOL to release into the public domain the audio recordings between officials during yesterday's match against Everton at Goodison Park. The club has requested this be shared for three key match incidents - Ashley Young's challenge on Giovanni Reyna (24th minute), Ashley Young's handball (44th minute) and Ashley Young’' challenge on Callum Hudson-Odoi (56th minute). We firmly advocate for the broader football community and supporters to have access to the audio and transcript for full transparency, ensuring the integrity of our sport is upheld."
GettyEverton took a huge step towards Premier League survival and have their destiny in their own hands as they face Liverpool, Brentford and Luton in their next three games. The same just about remains true of Forest as they prepare for more difficult matches against Manchester City and Chelsea either side of visiting Sheffield United, but their position is much more precarious.