Keith Wyness: Council told to respect Nottingham Forest after new talks

Everton’s former chief Keith Wyness has claimed Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis will want to keep the club at the City Ground.

The 66-year-old – who served as CEO at Goodison Park between 2004 and 2009 and now runs a football consultancy advising elite clubs – suggested the city council should show more “respect” to the club given the revenue it generates for the area.

Football Insider revealed on Wednesday (15 May) that there is a significant split between Nottingham Forest chiefs about whether to stay or leave the City Ground.

Forest had started laying the groundwork for expansion plans to grow the capacity to over 40,000 – but have been involved in a dispute over leasing costs with the city.

As revealed by The Athletic (9 May), the Midlands club are now considering building a new 50,000-capacity stadium on the outskirts of Nottingham.

Nottingham Forest deserve more ‘respect’ after City Ground row, says Wyness

However, Wyness claimed Marinakis will understand the meaning of the City Ground to the club’s supporters.

“I’m sure Marinakis would prefer to stay at the City Ground.

“There are plans in place which can take it to 40,000 or 50,000.

“There’s the river on one side of the ground, but there will be ways Forest can do it.

“The fans have made their feelings clear, chanting against a move away from the City Ground.

“Marinakis understands that the soul of the club is based on the location.

“It’s a historic location and a short walk into the city, it’s perfect.

“He had to offer the option. Sometimes city councils can miscalculate, and it’s now a pretty clear negotiation.

“You have to show another clear option to let everyone know what is at stake.

“If we were in a franchise situation, like with the NBA or NFL, then Nottingham would be paying money to have the club – rather than the other way around.

“The city have to be realistic about what they’re expecting. People don’t realise the impact the Premier League is having on local economies, and they’ve got to respect that.”