Nottingham Forest Strengthens Backroom Staff with Addition of Alek Gross as Head of Performance
Nottingham Forest, the English football club, has made significant changes behind the scenes to strengthen its backroom staff. One of the key additions is Alek Gross, who has been appointed as the club’s head of performance. Gross previously served as Southampton’s head of sports science and will now take on a senior position at Nottingham Forest.
The restructuring at Nottingham Forest is part of the club’s efforts to create a stronger infrastructure. Ross Wilson, Forest’s chief football officer, who joined the club in April, has been instrumental in implementing these changes. Wilson previously worked with Gross at Southampton and has brought him on board to enhance the performance department.
Wilson, who spent four years at Southampton as director of football operations, aims to build a robust foundation at Nottingham Forest. This includes making new additions at every level, from the first team to the academy and the women’s team. The club is particularly focused on addressing their injury woes from the previous season, where they had one of the worst injury records in the Premier League.
To tackle this issue, Nottingham Forest has also appointed Adam Burrows as their new head of strength and conditioning. Burrows was part of Thomas Tuchel’s backroom staff when Chelsea won the Champions League in 2021. His experience and expertise will be invaluable in improving the players’ physical fitness and reducing the risk of injuries.
Gross, who was one of several departures from Southampton after their relegation last season, will play a significant role in this regard. He has experience combining his role as head of sports science with that of a first-team fitness coach. Nottingham Forest recognizes the importance of preventing soft-tissue injuries and has made it a priority to address this issue.
Gross joined Southampton in 2013 after working with the Leeds Rhinos rugby league team for six years. During his time with the Rhinos, he played a crucial role in their success, helping them win the Super League title in three consecutive seasons. His expertise and track record make him a valuable addition to Nottingham Forest’s performance department.
In addition to his role as head of performance, Wilson is also responsible for the club’s recruitment plans. Nottingham Forest has already made moves in the transfer market, with bids for Ibrahim Sangare from PSV Eindhoven and strong interest in goalkeeper Dean Henderson and winger Anthony Elanga from Manchester United. The club has also offered a two-year contract to Willian, who is deciding between a move to Nottingham Forest or accepting a new one-year deal from Fulham.
One significant transfer that is expected to go through is Sam Surridge’s £5 million move to Nashville SC. Surridge, who was out of favor with Steve Cooper, Nottingham Forest’s manager, is due to fly to the U.S. next week for his medical. Forest believes they have negotiated a good price for the striker, considering his contract situation and lack of playing time.
The changes made by Nottingham Forest behind the scenes reflect their commitment to building a stronger and more successful club. With the additions of Alek Gross and Adam Burrows, the club aims to improve player performance and reduce injuries. Additionally, Ross Wilson’s role in recruitment demonstrates the club’s ambition to strengthen the squad and compete at a higher level. Nottingham Forest fans can look forward to an exciting future as the club continues to evolve and grow.