The pressure continues to mount on Nottingham Forest manager Ange Postecoglou, whose search for a first win in charge resumes with the visit of Chelsea to the City Ground.

Many expected the Australian coach to be dismissed during the international break, but the Forest hierarchy have chosen patience, at least for now.

Whether that faith will be rewarded or tested further could depend on how his side fare against an unpredictable yet dangerous Chelsea outfit.

Match News and Current Form

Things have gone from bad to worse for Forest. They entered the break on the back of a 2-0 defeat to Newcastle, a result that extended their winless run to seven competitive matches (D2, L5).

Even worse, they’ve failed to win any of their last nine games in all competitions (D3, L6) and have yet to pick up a point at home under Postecoglou.

The atmosphere at the City Ground is tense, and with rumours already swirling about Sean Dyche as a potential replacement, Forest desperately need a statement performance to calm the waters.

Chelsea, on the other hand, went into the break on a high after their 2-1 win over defending champions Liverpool at Stamford Bridge.

However, consistency remains elusive for Enzo Maresca’s men, who sit mid-table after a mixed start (W3, D2, L2).

The Blues continue to battle an injury crisis in defence, yet the victory over Liverpool may finally give them the belief to string a few wins together.

Their away record, though, remains a concern,  just three wins from their last 14 Premier League road trips (D4, L7).

Still, there’s room for optimism: all three came within their most recent six away matches, suggesting gradual improvement.

Head-to-Head History

Chelsea have enjoyed the upper hand in this fixture, winning three of their last four Premier League visits to the City Ground.

A win here would mark their third successive away league victory over Forest, something they’ve never achieved before.

Hot Stats and Streaks

• Postecoglou has lost all four of his previous Premier League meetings with Chelsea.
• Forest have conceded a league-high six goals after the 75th minute this season.
• Chelsea have let in four of their five away league goals before half-time.
• Only Arsenal (53) have taken more corners than Chelsea’s 45 in the league this term.

Key Players to Watch

For Forest, Callum Hudson-Odoi will be keen to impress against his former club.

Known for late-game impact, six of his last eight club goals have come after half-time, a statistic that could prove crucial if Forest are to snatch something late.

Chelsea’s teenage sensation Estêvão might be the one to watch for the visitors after his match-winning cameo against Liverpool.

Whether starting or coming off the bench, the Brazilian has a knack for timing, four of his last five goals have arrived in the second half.

Team News

Forest remain without Ola Aina, who continues his long-term recovery.

Chelsea, meanwhile, finished their last match without a recognised centre-back on the pitch, highlighting their ongoing injury struggles.

Benoit Badiashile will be out until December, while Pedro Neto and Enzo Fernandez are doubts.

Cole Palmer, their creative heartbeat, has missed the last four games and will be out for six weeks.

Potential Lineups

Nottingham Forest: 3-4-3 – Sels; Milenkovic, Morato, Cunha; Ndoye, Anderson, Yates, Williams; Gibbs-White, Igor Jesus, Hudson-Odoi

Chelsea: 4-2-3-1 – Sanchez; James, Fofana, Tosin, Cucurella; Lavia, Caicedo; Estevao, Enzo, Garnacho; Joao Pedro 

Where to Watch

United Kingdom: TNT Sports

United States: Peacock

Canada: Fubo

India: JioHotstar

Australia: Stan Sport

Nigeria: SuperSports

Conclusion and prediction

With Forest desperate to lift the gloom and Chelsea eager to build on recent momentum, this clash promises intensity and nerves in equal measure.

The City Ground will be loud, the stakes will be high, but unless Forest find defensive discipline fast, Chelsea’s quality could once again prove too much.

My prediction – Nottingham Forest 1-4 Chelsea. Ange sacked.