Steve Cook discusses what he wished Nottingham Forest would focus on more
Defender Steve Cook, who helped Nottingham Forest earn promotion, has opened up about his time at the City Ground and said he wishes he could go back in time and change one thing.
The 32-year-old left Bournemouth for the Reds in January 2022 on a free transfer, and he was a crucial member of the Forest defense during the team’s bid for promotion in 2021/22.
Cook began the Premier League season as a regular starter, but he soon found himself behind players like Joe Worrall, Moussa Niakhate, and Scott McKenna in the pecking order.
The defender was then dropped from Forest’s 25-man Premier League squad following the January transfer window last year, although he was unable to sign with another team before the market closed.
Cook spent months working with the Forest academy and taking on coaching responsibilities, helping the club’s young players advance before his eventual departure in August.
Steve Cook at Nottingham Forest, fulfilling his one wish
The defender said this week during an appearance on the Garibaldi Red Podcast that while he cherished his time with the team, there was one aspect of his tenure at the City Ground that he would change.
It’s odd because there wasn’t much playing time, which was unfortunate.
“When I originally joined, I anticipated staying there for a while, but given how much has transpired so quickly, I wouldn’t change.
“I wish I could have played a lot more, but it’s wonderful to be named a fan favorite. I’m glad of what happened during the 18 months I was there.
We got promoted, so even if I didn’t play as much as I had anticipated, I wouldn’t change a thin
“Looking at the signings they’re making and the steps forward they will take from here, I’m really pleased,” said the player who helped keep the team in the Premier League.
Cook may have only played 34 times for the team, but his contribution to a season that will go down in Nottingham Forest’s history will always be remembered.