Reid leaves Forest to become wellbeing, confidence & leadership coach

STEVEN REID has left his role as Nottingham Forest first-team coach to become a specialist “helping people improve their mental wellbeing, confidence and leadership.”

The former Republic of Ireland international initially joined Forest as an assistant to Chris Hughton in 2020 and subsequently became part of Steve Cooper’s coaching staff. Last season he helped the club secure a return to the Premier League for the first time in 23 years.

Reid, who has also served on the first-team staff of the Scotland national team, West Brom, Crystal Palace and Reading, said: "It is with a heavy heart that I announce that I am leaving my coaching position at Nottingham Forest and taking my career in a new direction.

“As those close to me know, I've had mental health and confidence issues throughout my playing and coaching career, which has spanned from League One Academy football through to the Premier League, World Cup and European Championships.

“I’ve been lucky in that I've had an excellent support network around me to pull me through these times. I now want to dedicate my time to being part of that support for any players/athletes or staff who might not have this network in place. That is why I'll now be offering my services as a specialist coach - helping people improve their mental well-being, confidence, and leadership; probably a mix of all three. This is the area that I have become passionate with over recent times.

"I believe that the combination of having been there and experienced the many fantastic highs and desperate lows, alongside my ongoing training as a counsellor and LMA Mentor, will help others to perform at a higher level.

"My time at Nottingham Forest could not have finished on a bigger high than promotion to the Premier League, and I have no doubt under the guidance of Steve Cooper and staff, next season will be another great success. I leave with some amazing memories - none more so than being fortunate enough to lead the team against Huddersfield away.

"A big thank you to everyone at Forest over the last two seasons, and for making last year such an amazing one. All the very best for the future."

Cooper added: "I'm obviously disappointed that Steven will be departing, as not only was he an integral part of our coaching team, but he was also a brilliant guy to have around on a day-to-day basis.

"He will be sorely missed, but at the same time, we fully respect his decision and wish him the best on his next chapter which I know he is very passionate about.

"There's no doubt he will succeed in the next phase as that is the type of guy he is. The club wishes Steven every success for the future and thanks him for his tremendous service in helping us return to the Premier League.”