Talks between Nigel Clough and Nottingham Forest have collapsed- Sky sources
Monday 30 January 2017 20:48, UK
Discussions between Burton boss Nigel Clough and Nottingham Forest owner Fawaz Al-Hasawi have collapsed, according to Sky sources.
Clough had been lined up for an emotional move to take charge of the club at which his father Brian Clough won two European Cups and the 1978 First Division, but such a switch now appears unlikely.
Sky sources understand that despite initial talks having been positive between the pair, Clough was ultimately not happy with the package and stability Al-Hasawi could provide at the City Ground, while the Forest owner was also said to be unhappy with Clough's demands.
Philippe Montanier was sacked as Forest boss on January 14 following a run of two points from a possible 21 in the Championship, with Clough installed as a romantic favourite to take over.
It is understood now though that Clough would prefer to remain at Burton with the stability provided under Albion chairman Ben Robinson, believing it to be a better option than Forest.
Trending
- Arteta warns Liverpool: Your form will be difficult to sustain
- Transfer Centre LIVE! 'Real inform Liverpool of desire to sign Trent'
- PL Predictions: Play the Wolves and Ipswich double at 12/1
- Martin and Hurzeler claim lack of respect after squaring up to each other
- Leicester appoint Ruud as new boss | 'I phoned Maresca before taking job'
- Nelson: Usyk knows Fury's weakness - and that's the problem
- Brighton 1-1 Southampton - recap and commentary
- Ronaldo takes career goal tally to 915 after brace in Al-Nassr victory
- Liverpool latest: Konate to miss Man City game after he confirms injury
- 'We don't have a squad' - Guardiola hints at Man City rebuild
Al-Hasawi has now shifted his focus onto moves for "other candidates", according to sources.
"We are delighted that Nigel Clough has decided to continue the excellent job he has done at the club since re-joining us in December 2015," confirmed Burton chairman Robinson.
"At that time we did agree that if Nottingham Forest made an approach for him, due to his long association with the club, that we would allow both parties to talk.
"When an approach was made we gave Nigel the opportunity to talk to Nottingham Forest but now we are happy to report that he will be staying at the Pirelli Stadium.
"Nigel and his backroom team have been fully focused on the job of keeping Burton Albion in the Championship. I have always said that that job was as difficult as a featherweight taking on a super heavyweight but I know Nigel, his backroom team and the players will give everything to keep Burton Albion in the Championship."
Sky had previously reported that Clough was torn on the prospective move, having been given permission to speak to Forest by current club Burton.
Clough met with Forest owner Al-Hasawi in London on January 27, prior to taking his Burton side to victory at Queens Park Rangers on Saturday.
Sky sources understood then that a key sticking point was just how much say Clough would have over any incoming staff to the City Ground, including a new chief executive, while Al-Hasawi was believed to be reluctant to hand over too much control in that area.
"Having started this historic season in the Championship it is only right that we should stay and continue the job of trying to achieve the miracle of keeping Burton Albion in the Championship. Staying is the right thing to do," added Clough.
