Nottingham Forest have confirmed the appointment of Vitor Pereira as their new head coach on a deal running until the end of next season — ridiculously making him their fourth manager of the campaign.

Pereira replaces Sean Dyche, who was relieved of his duties in the early hours of Thursday morning following a humdinger of a 0-0 draw against Wolves — the very club Pereira previously managed.

No approach for West Ham’s Jémez

Reports had surfaced from The Athletic suggesting Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis was eyeing West Ham first-team coach Paco Jémez, who has earned growing praise since joining the Hammers. But as exclusively revealed by Claret & Hugh earlier today, no approach was made, and there was never any truth to the speculation.

A top source confirmed: “There was no contact. Jémez was never available, and Forest only ever considered Pereira.” It seems the rumour mill was in overdrive, but West Ham’s rising coach remains firmly under contract at the London Stadium and has no intention of leaving mid-season.

The timing of Pereira’s arrival is crucial given Forest’s next two fixtures. They must first navigate a tricky Europa League play-off clash with Fenerbahçe, before returning to Premier League...