Chelsea learn Nottingham Forest's sack decision on Ange Postecoglou ahead of Blues clash

Despite a rocky start, Nottingham Forest are reportedly leaning towards retaining Ange Postecoglou at the City Ground for the time being. The former Tottenham boss has found himself under immediate scrutiny after failing to secure a single victoryin his first seven matches, and Chelsealie next in wait.

Postecoglou stepped into the role following Nuno Espirito Santo's departure from the Midlands, after club owner Evangelos Marinakis dismissed the Portuguese coach due to a deteriorating relationship. Last season, Nuno led Forest to Europa League qualification.

Currently, the Tricky Trees find themselves in 17th place in the Premier League, having not tasted victory since their opening day triumph over Brentford.

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Since taking the reins at the City Ground, Postecoglou has suffered three losses in four league games, along with a draw against Real Betis and a home defeat to Danish outfit Midtjylland.

The Australian manager has already been on the receiving end of chants from Forest's own fans, predicting his imminent dismissal. In response, Postecoglou stated: "The fans are disappointed. They're allowed to have their opinion on it and I heard their opinion."

However, according to the Daily Mail, the club is currently inclined to keep Postecoglou for the upcoming clash against Chelsea at The City Ground on Saturday, October 18 (12.30pm kick off). Forest intended to use the international break to consider their decision.

This call, however, does not seem to be finalised. The report suggests that the situation could still change, despite Marinakis being unlikely to take action during the remainder of the international break.

Forest are reportedly eyeing Fulham boss Marco Silva as a potential replacement. The 48-year-old has made quite an impression at the helm of the Cottagers, securing their position in the top flight.

However, Marinakis, during his tenure at Forest, has only ever appointed managers who are without a club. This approach has saved the Greek owner from engaging in protracted negotiations over compensation.

Silva's contract is due to run out at the end of the season. The former Everton and Watford coach does have a substantial release clause, but this won't be necessary if Marinakis can wait until next summer to make his move.

Postecoglou, on the other hand, confessed that he 'expects' to have a conversation with Marinakis and the Forest board about 'what we have embarked on here, where we are at and what we are going to do'.

Speaking last weekend, the former Spurs manager stated: "If people want to make an assessment after three and a half weeks, after we have had seven games, there's nothing I can do about that.

"At the same time, there's nothing wrong with things being tough. I did have an option - I could have been sitting on the couch watching the game and not be in the middle of it. I'd much rather be here. I love a fight."