Dyche’s predecessor, Ange Postecoglou, also mentioned fitness in his final press conference before his exit after 39 days in charge. The Australian said of the Forest players’ physical ‘metrics’ needed for his style of football: “We’re getting closer, but we’re still well off where we need to be.”

If Nottingham Forest are going to stay in the Premier League, they will need to start picking up points fast, and Sean Dyche has just seen his side keep Man United at bay.

Sean Dyche has confirmed Chris Wood is one of several Nottingham Forest players who will miss the Premier League clash against Manchester United. Wood, who scored in the reverse fixture at Old Trafford last season, has been struggling with a knee problem sustained while on international duty with New Zealand earlier in the month.

Nottingham Forest can win four successive league games against Manchester United for the first time since 1910 this weekend.

Turning around Nottingham Forest’s fortunes, Sean Dyche has emphasised, is not a case of simply flicking a switch. It is not that easy. Much hard work lies ahead, the Reds head coach admitted after his team’s 2-2 draw with Manchester United. Issues that took hold toward the end of last season continue to linger.

Amad Diallo's stunning volley denied Dyche a first league win as Forest boss, leaving the 54-year-old deeply frustrated at United's opener.

Ruben Amorim has said that Sean Dyche was correct when he stated Manchester United would win more games with him in charge playing 4-4-2.

Now, Sean Dyche has been appointed to the City Ground helm to steady the ship, having done so with Everton and Burnley. But the gaffer will be wary of his relationship with Chris Wood ending sourly at Turf Moor.

Dyche on controversy over the awarding of a corner for Manchester United for their first goal: "The thing that is really annoying. The assistant is 75 yards away, how can you see that? Those decisions are massively important.