The Portuguese coach was confronted by Marinakis in the aftermath of a result that damaged Forest's hopes of qualifying for the Champions League and Nuno stressed that the row was a result of striker Taiwo Awoniyi's lack of mobility in the closing stages of Sunday's (11.05.25) Premier League game after he clattered into a post that meant that the team were playing a man light.

He said: "It was disappointing for everybody. Unfortunately, we had to play the last 10 minutes with one man less. Taiwo gave it a go but it was too painful for him to really push and help the team. There was a misunderstanding between the coaching staff and the medical department. We had the heads up to make a sub, then Taiwo tried but he could not [run fully].

"[We feel] disappointment and frustration of course. But it is because of the owner and his passion that we are growing as a club. He pushes us. He wants us to be better. It is his passion and desire to be a big club – 30,000 people felt the same today. For sure, many of them would go on the pitch and shake us down. Us as a club, we owe a lot to the Marinakis family."

Marinakis also issued a statement defending his behaviour - which was branded "scandalous" by Sky Sports pundit Gary Neville - as he celebrated Forest securing European qualification.

The Greek businessman said: "Today is a day for celebration, because after 30 years Nottingham Forest is now guaranteed to be competing on the European stage once again – a promise I made to our supporters when we achieved promotion!

"Everybody – coaching staff, players, supporters and including myself – we were frustrated around the injury of Taiwo and the medical staff’s misjudgment on Taiwo’s ability to continue the game. This is natural, this is a demonstration of the passion we feel for our club. Let’s all be grateful, passionate and keep on dreaming!"