COOP: STOP GUNNING FOR BREN
STEVE COOPER has thrown a protective arm around Brennan Johnson, saying, ‘Imagine where we’d be without him’.
The Nottingham Forest manager mounted a heartfelt defence of the Wales international after an incident at the end of last week’s 2-0 defeat by Aston Villa.
Johnson (above) had walked towards the visiting contingent but was subjected by a minority to some abuse. That led to scuffles in the away end as passions spilled over – with Johnson’s dad, David, sat among them.
Cooper made a simple point to anyone doubting the contribution from the 21-year-old striker, who has scored eight of Forest’s 24 top-flight goals this season.
He said: “Just imagine where we would be without Brennan.
“Don’t get me wrong, it’s his job, but he’s committed to doing well for this club which he absolutely loves. He’s got a talent we need to nurture because it’s really helpful for us. “In fact, he’s super-talented. “I never worry about saying too many positive things about him, like I do with other young players, because I see a really humble, hardworking, caring, talented lad, who just wants to grow for this club because it means everything to him.
“I know how important Forest is to him and his family. And I love working with him because I love seeing young players wanting to learn and get better. He’ll definitely play against Manchester United.”
Forest are on a nine-game run without a win but last week’s dissent among fans was the first time there had been any public backlash against the manager.
Cooper (left) added: “When you go on a run like this, decision-making and substitutions will get questioned and that’s normal. It’s what makes being a fan so special and so important. They are absolutely entitled to their opinion.”