Given the fierce rivalry between the two East Midlands clubs, some Rams fans couldn’t resist having a dig at the Reds for their appointment.
Martin O’Neill has officially been appointed by Nottingham Forest as their new manager.
The 66-year-old, who played 371 games as a Reds player, ended his five-year spell as Republic of Ireland boss last November and has taken over a team ninth in the Championship, four points outside the playoff places.
O’Neill is widely appreciated at the City Ground for his role in helping Forest win eight trophies during his ten-year stint at the club, including a First Division title, two European Cups and two League Cups.
The Forest job is the Northern Irishman’s first return to club management since his spell with Sunderland earlier this decade, which saw him guide the Black Cats away from relegation from the Premier League in his first season.
O’Neill is a veteran in the game, having also managed the likes of Wycombe Wanderers, Norwich City, Leicester City, Celtic and Aston Villa.
Given the rivalry between Derby and Forest, the appointment of one of the Reds’ most iconic players of all time has prompted some derision from a number of Rams fans on Twitter (along with one well-wisher):
O’Neill’s first game in charge of Forest will be against Bristol City at the City Ground this Saturday, while his first East Midlands derby will be on February 25 in Nottingham.
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