For Chelsea, European football remains a somewhat surprising ambition for next season, with Mauricio Pochettino’s side chasing Conference and even Europa League football.
It was a rollercoaster of a campaign for the Blues, who had been mid-table until a late flourish that finally saw the Todd Boehly era finally get going somewhat late in the second season.
At the other end of the table, Nottingham Forest’s fate is all but sealed. Luton’s defeat at West Ham earlier on Saturday meant a big goal difference swing on the final day was needed for the Hatters to earn another year in the Premier League pending the result in Nottingham, and while this remains the case, hope is as small as it can be. .
Rob Edwards’ team has fought tooth and nail this season, but the top division has gone a step too far this time. With 26 points they are three short of Vorst with a goal difference of twelve.
Limited survival will be nothing to celebrate for Nuno’s side. Their passionate owner Evangelos Marinakis had hoped to start this term after a season of consolidation. They can now almost start planning for another year in the top flight, but having to wait until next week for confirmation will be a frustration that will linger.
Nicolas Jackson scored the winner for Chelsea as their European hopes remained alive
When Nicolas Jackson jumped into the away game with eight minutes remaining, a collective groan could be heard around the City Ground, with fans knowing there was a slim chance the impossible could happen in Burnley next week. It would be typical of Forest’s season.
The stadium was silent as Tony Harrington blew the final whistle, as the fans left somber and disappointed, a contrast to the feeling in the ground at the start of the match.
It was Forest who started the match as the better side. Chelsea seemed slightly nervous, perhaps worried about the unexpected opportunity that presented itself.
More to follow.
