Nottingham Forest claimed a 3-0 win in the first leg of their Europa League knockout round play-off with Fenerbahce last night.
New manager Vitor Pereira took charge of his first game and managed to get a tune out of the team.
The Tricky Trees tamed the Turkish side, emerging victorious through goals from Murillo, Igor Jesus, and Morgan Gibbs-White.
Gibbs-White has struggled to replicate his form from the previous season, but was excellent in Turkey.
Unsurprisingly, Forest have also found it difficult without their captain hitting his stride.
However, after switching to a fourth manager of the season in their desperate bid to stave off relegation in the Premier League, Gibbs-White may find his groove.
Gibbs-White was floating for Forest against Fenerbahce, creating two big chances and playing two key passes. He was constantly buzzing in the final third.
It is early days under Pereira. One Europa League win does not suddenly erase months of inconsistency or guarantee a great escape in the Premier League.
But there were clear signs that the new manager’s structure and demands suited Gibbs-White.
Pundit Ally McCoist described Gibbs-White as ‘unbelievable’. He looked freer, sharper and more involved, empowered within a clearer attacking framework.
If Pereira can consistently unlock that version of Gibbs-White, Forest’s survival hopes will instantly look brighter.
