We're not too far away!' - Ange Postecoglou has full faith in Nottingham Forest project as under-fire manager said to be on verge of sack

Postecoglou’s Nottingham Forest tenure has started in disappointing fashion, with the club enduring their worst start to a managerial reign in over a century. A midweek Europa League defeat to Midtjylland only increased scrutiny on the former Tottenham and Celtic boss. Supporters voiced their frustration, but Postecoglou remains determined to turn things around quickly.

The Forest boss downplayed talk of being under pressure and reflected on his experience at Tottenham: “I get it. I think it’s a valid assumption in modern football that there’s always a manager under pressure. That’s just part and parcel of what we do,” Postecoglou said. “I don’t think that way. Put it this way, I knew I was getting sacked at Tottenham about three or four months before I did, but it didn’t stop me winning something.

“It doesn’t enter my head. My responsibility lies in making sure this football club progresses and gets to a position where it can challenge for things. If I start worrying about what’s going to happen next week, then I’m not performing the role I’ve been given. I just don’t think that’s helpful to anyone,” he said. “The things I control are the environment, training and the way we play. I am still very, very strong in my belief that we are not too far away.”

Postecoglou also addressed criticism from the stands after fans chanted for his dismissal during the Europa League defeat. He said: “I don’t like sending messages to fans. 

“They love their football club and are obviously disappointed with the way things are going at the moment, and disappointed with last night. “The one thing I can do is fulfil the responsibility I have to get the team out there to change our fortunes. If we do that, then I’m sure the fans will be happier with everything.”

Nottingham Forest travel to face Newcastle United on Sunday, where Postecoglou will be desperate to claim his first victory as manager. With pressure mounting, a positive result could ease the tension surrounding his position. A loss, however, would deepen concerns and leave his future hanging in the balance just a month into his reign.