It’s third hosting fourth on Saturday as the Blues make the trip to the City Ground for a 12:30 (UK) kick-off.
Victory in the East Midlands would move us into the top three in the Premier League table and boost our chances of getting into the elite European competition for a 15th successive season.
The boss says all eyes are on this target as he gets set to pit his wits against Nuno Espirito Santo’s Forest, who have shone brightly across 2024/25.
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“We accept the reality. The reality is we try to finish top four,” the manager told the media on Friday.
“Tomorrow we have an opportunity to be third in the table and climb and secure this target.
“There are many clubs, many teams fighting for this target, everyone wants to be in the Champions League next season – for the prestige, sustainability and economically, for many reasons.
“We want to qualify but if doesn’t happen it is because we have not been good enough and other teams deserve it.
“In this particular game, the uncertainty can be decisive. In the Premier League, over 38 fixtures, it is fair enough. The results dictate where you finish.
“We are in a position that is not ideal but it is not bad enough and it is in our hands and we are going to fight for that.”
Watch the manager’s press conference above.
