The Nottingham Forest manager compared his new side to a stable Leeds United.
Nottingham Forest boss Oliver Glasner admits Leeds United’s long-term stability has contributed to them being ahead of his side at this moment.
Leeds have won twice at the City Ground in four days, the latter a 2-0 Carabao Cup victory courtesy of Daniel James’ finish and a Neco Williams own goal. Last weekend, the Whites won their Premier League opener 1-0 with Anton Stach on the scoresheet.
Glasner believes there is something in the fact Leeds are into their fourth year under the same management and with an ever-present core. But the Forest boss was frustrated at how his side gifted the visitors chances.
“On Saturday it was all square but today they were better,” Glasner admitted. “On the other hand, we are responsible for their chances. We made so many mistakes and made so many wrong decisions. Almost every chance came when we lost the ball and were vulnerable.
“But Leeds have been together now for two or three years. They have the same manager, changed system last year but very consistent now. They only lost the last game at West Ham last season but before that were eight games unbeaten.
“A great pre-season, wins against Liverpool, Sunderland and Augsburg, and we can see why. Very aggressive, clear structure. We also had two chances, an incredible recovery of [Joe] Rodon and an incredible save from [James] Trafford.”
Leeds can also boast the keeping of two clean sheets against a Forest side that created chances but failed to convert any. Glasner admits his opposite number Farke has a team much further ahead in their cycle as the new season kicks into gear.
“It’s the reality,” he added. “We play Leeds twice at home and lose both games so Leeds are better and further ahead right now. That’s the reality. It’s up to us to change this. It’s what we have to do and what we will do. It’s about accepting and not finding excuses.
“It doesn’t make sense to talk about seventh place three years ago. This is the reality. It’s tough but if you ignore the reality, you live in a dreamland. This is never the best thing to do. Right now, Leeds are further ahead and it’s our responsibility to change this.”