Sean Dyche says restoring belief and reconnecting with fans are his top priorities as he begins his reign at Nottingham Forest.
The 54-year-old, speaking to the media, stressed the importance of reminding players of their capabilities and building on the foundation laid last season.
“We’ve reminded them how good they are, what they’ve already achieved, and how we can build on that to bring consistency,” Dyche said.
Forest are without a win since the opening day of the Premier League season and haven’t kept a clean sheet in 20 games. Dyche believes performances – not just results – will help shift momentum.
“I don’t think it’s far away from the team reconnecting. Results help that, of course, but the first thing is performances,” he said.
He also addressed the need for balance, aiming to combine defensive solidity with attacking freedom.
“There’s some real talent here. So how can we find that balance-the risk and reward of going forward to score goals and excite the crowd, but equally the base, which has been such a big weapon for the club?”
“Strong, fit and organised is a good start point. But I want the players to have their freedom to go and play.”
Dyche, who came through the Forest academy in the late 1980s, said the chance to manage the club is personally significant.
“It’s strange to be back, but a very pleasing thing,” he said. “Everyone knows I’ve spoken down the years about my affection for Forest. I learnt so much here. It’s one of those things-you imagine one day, could it be?”
He takes charge of his first game on Thursday as Forest host Porto in the Europa League.
