Nottingham are currently going through a difficult period: the sensation of the last campaign has not tasted victory for seven matches in a row, and the last defeat to Newcastle before the international matches only deepened the crisis. Postecoglou is looking for a formula for success, but so far he is forced to fight not only with rivals, but also with the pressure of fans. Forest are scoring little and conceding too often – and this is a concern, because the team is just one step away from the relegation zone. But is it a surprise when a coach with a radically different football philosophy with an emphasis on attack comes to a team that is pragmatic in style? We don’t think so.

At the same time, there is a glimmer of hope — recovery from injuries to several key players. Ukrainian Oleksandr Zinchenko, who missed the last matches due to groin problems, can return to the starting line-up. His versatility and experience should be a big help for the Reds. Douglas Luiz’s participation is also in question, while Igor Jesus continues to impress in training and is ready to replace the injured Chris Wood in attack.

Chelsea, on the contrary, meets the match in high spirits. A 2-1 victory over Liverpool before the international break was not only an emotional boost, but also a sign that Enzo Maresca’s side are gradually getting closer to the game and the results they expect from them. Moises Caicedo scored with a superb strike, while young Brazilian Estevan gave the Blues victory in stoppage time, becoming the youngest Brazilian in Premier League history to score the decisive goal.

Despite a series of injuries and the suspension of Maresca himself, Chelsea are showing confidence and stability. The team have won three of their last four matches in all competitions and are now back in the Champions League zone, just three points behind. However, away matches are not yet the strong point of the Londoners: only three victories in the last 14 trips in the Premier League. In addition, the last games at the City Ground were not easy for the “retirees” – 1:0 and 3:2 victories along with a 1:1 draw.