Nuno makes Thomas Tuchel offer after Nottingham Forest scouting trip
by Sarah Clapson · NottinghamshireLiveNottingham Forest having several contenders for Thomas Tuchel’s first England squad can only be beneficial for the club, according to Nuno Espirito Santo.
Tuchel was at the City Ground last week to watch the Reds’ FA Cup victory over Ipswich Town and will name his Three Lions squad tomorrow (Friday). Morgan Gibbs-White will hope to get the opportunity to add to his caps collection while Elliot Anderson and Callum Hudson-Odoi must also surely be in the running for call-ups. Ryan Yates might be an outside bet for many, but there is no doubt about his importance Trentside.
Head coach Nuno says it is a source of pride for Forest that they could have as many as 14 players linking up with their respective countries during the upcoming international fixtures. It is a sign of the progress both they and the club have made.
“We have a lot of English players that are options for the England squad,” Nuno said ahead of Saturday’s Premier League clash at Ipswich Town (3pm kick-off). “Every time one of our players goes to a national team, we as a club are very proud. That is one of their goals as an individual, and that makes them better and that makes them perform better for us.
“It's a cycle. We are very proud. Not only the English players, but we have a lot (of internationals). There are going to be almost 14 players going to the national teams. That is a reflection of their good work.
“We are very proud that they go. How can you play for your country and not feel proud of yourself? What we want is them to return healthy; that is what we are looking forward to.”
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Asked if he had spoken to England boss Tuchel about any of the Reds players, Nuno said: “No, not yet. If he wants, I am free. But I think it is for everybody to see. The national team coaches make a lot of observational games because they are looking at possible players for their squads. If Thomas has been here, it's because he is counting on our players.”
Gibbs-White made his England debut under interim boss Lee Carsley last year and has continued to be a key figure for Forest since then. Nuno said: “One of the big things Morgan has been giving us, not only his incredible performances on the pitch, but the fact he is always ready to help his teammates and his leadership. He is one of the captains.
“Regarding the England squad, let’s wait and see what Thomas does. We hope everybody he wants to take, takes. There’s a lot of English players in our squad.”