Ange Postecoglou gave speech to Nottingham Forest players before ruthless sacking

Forest confirmed Postecoglou's sacking with a short statement on social media. They said: "Nottingham Forest Football Club can confirm that after a series of disappointing results and performances, Ange Postecoglou has been relieved of his duties as head coach with immediate effect.

"The Club will make no further comment at this time."

Now, according to TNT Sports presenter Jules Breach, it has emerged that Postecoglou actually addressed his players in the dressing room after the defeat.

The former Forest boss lamented their failure to score against Chelsea and was apparently left 'frustrated' by their lack of cutting edge in front of goal.

Postecoglou did, however, also tell his Forest players that he thought they were capable of turning things around. Morgan Gibbs-White, speaking to the broadcaster, insisted the 60-year-old also had the support of his players.

Ultimately, however, the Australian's time at the City Ground is now over - with Forest set to embark on a hunt for a new manager.

Many supporters would have loved to see Nuno Espirito Santo brought back in after he guided the club to seventh in the Premier League table last term.

That isn't possible now, however, with the Portuguese recently replacing Graham Potter at West Ham.

Sean Dyche is the frontrunner to take charge at Forest, with the 54-year-old currently available following his departure from Everton back in January.

His defensive style of play could suit Forest amid their battle for survival, though fans might want a bigger name.

Forest are big admirers of Fulham boss Marco Silva, who is widely expected to leave the club at the end of the season.

Any departure won't happen before then, however, meaning the club may have to look elsewhere.

Brendan Rodgers has been linked with a return to the Premier League as well.

And former Manchester United managers Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and Erik ten Hag could be of interest, with both men currently without a job.

Meanwhile, TNT pundits Glenn Hoddle and Peter Crouch have reacted to Postecoglou's departure.

Hoddle said: "To leave his [Evangelos Marinakis] seat after 60 minutes that was a statement in itself.

"I'm surprised he has done it so quickly after the game.

"Eight games they've not gone well, but after eight matches as a manager, it's no time at all.

"Surely he has got to be given more time than that."

Crouch added: "The empty seat spoke volumes.

"It was pretty obvious that the decision was going to be made.

"I thought he [Evangelos Marinakis] might let the dust settle for a couple of hours, but this chairman doesn't mess about."

Forest are next in action against Porto in the Europa League on Thursday as they look to return to winning ways.