“Forest’s Most Controversial Manager Breaks Silence – Revenge Return Incoming?”

Billy Davies has revealed he had “no reservations” about taking the Nottingham Forest manager’s job, despite the potential backlash from having previously managed their fierce rivals, Derby County. Speaking on the Garibaldi Red podcast, Davies reflected on his two stints at the City Ground and the challenges he faced crossing the Brian Clough Way divide.

The Scottish manager first took charge of Forest in January 2009, inheriting a struggling side near the bottom of the Championship. Under his leadership, the club experienced a remarkable turnaround, reaching the play-offs in both the 2009/10 and 2010/11 seasons. However, despite his success, he was sacked by then-owner Nigel Doughty. Davies returned to Forest in February 2013 during Fawaz Al-Hasawi’s ownership, but his second spell was far less fruitful, culminating in a humiliating 5-0 defeat to Derby and his subsequent dismissal. 

Out of management since his departure from Forest, Davies is now eyeing a return to the dugout. Reflecting on his controversial move from Derby to Forest, he firmly denied having any second thoughts. “No, no, no. I don’t think so. Forest is a great club,” Davies said. “I had my time at Derby County and achieved what I did there. This was a new opportunity. Forest was in the bottom three or bottom five at the time, and I saw it as a great challenge.” 

Davies acknowledged the difficulties he faced taking over a club located just 12 miles from his former team’s home. “I knew that joining Forest wouldn’t be smooth sailing. Being so close to Derby, I expected there to be a lot of nonsense around my appointment. But I had no reservations at all,” he explained. 

The manager praised former Forest owner Nigel Doughty, crediting him for presenting the challenge of lifting Forest out of the Championship. “Nigel made it clear he wanted me to get this team promoted, and it was a challenge I thoroughly enjoyed,” Davies added. 

Despite the turbulent nature of his second tenure, Davies looks back fondly on his time at Forest and remains eager to take on a new managerial role. His story highlights both the highs and the pitfalls of managing one of the Championship’s most storied clubs, especially in the shadow of their local rivals.