NOTTINGHAM FOREST HOME 1992-94
Throughout Brian Clough’s glory years, Forest always looked stylish at the forefront of kit design – beginning with Adidas in the late 70’s and early 80’s as John Robertson, Garry Birtles, Tony Woodcock and Kenny Burns ruled the roost at home and abroad and then later in the decade as Umbro upped their game when the new generation burst into the first team to maintain the City Ground club’s position amongst English football’s top clubs.
The early 90’s – when Forest jumped on Umbro’s retro revival – was the beginning of the end of the halcyon days for Clough and his team. As the manager’s health and motivation waned, so did his team’s performances despite fielding players of the calibre of Teddy Sheringham, Nigel Clough, Stuart Pearce, Des Walker and the young Roy Keane.
Local brewers Shipstones sponsored Forest until their New Basford operation closed following a company takeover. Canadian beer makers Labatt’s stepped into the breach until 1997.
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zmjBwHqpsxU&w=560&h=315]
Ultimately, this kit will be remembered for being in use for two historical moments; on August 16th, 1992 for Sky Sports’ first ever televised Super Sunday fixture when Forest defeated Liverpool 1-0 at the City Ground and the sad occasion of the club’s relegation – confirmed on May 1st, 1993 after a 0-2 home defeat to Sheffield United. Not only was that the end of Forest in the top flight (if only for one season, as they returned at the first attempt the following year) but it was an ignominious end to Old Big Head’s illustrious, if controversial, managerial career. Despite this, his legend and that of his time in Nottingham will remain preserved.
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qB0P9V9T8wY&w=420&h=315]
Classic retro shirts now available from Campo www.camporetro.com
