We need to have a talk about this Joao Carvalho situation. Because it has been an utter farce for #nffc over the last 18 months...

[THREAD]

Carvalho has ALWAYS been targeted by history revisionists: People claimed he “fell out favour under Karanka”, despite playing in Aitor’s last 5 games.

People say he “had a chance to prove himself”. When did he last get a run of games? Or get more than 60 mins to prove himself?

Local media played nicely into a negative narrative about Carvalho. At first to defend their darling O’Neill, and then to save face under Sabri. He was falsely accused of having a bad attitude. He was alleged to be a ‘wantaway’ player. No statements like these are true.

So yes, of course the argument is, why has Carvalho not played for TWO managers now?

Under MON, there were four CDMs on the pitch in some games. Under Sabri, Forest somehow found a way to play without a #10. But that lack of creativity has now come back to bite Lamouchi...

As a creative midfielder, he was dragged out to the wing. He was just as isolated as Grabban for large parts of the game. As Sabriball fell apart, it became impossible for a player like Carvalho to thrive. Hardly anything would go through the middle.

It’s funny too, that somehow, Carvalho ended up getting the blame for Forest losing games when he came back into the side. It was particularly hilarious when he was scapegoated for the 3-0 against Millwall... didn’t realise he was our entire back four?

This whole saga is one of two things: It’s either a terrible decision - facilitated by the board’s desire to cost up with Jorge Mendes - or its the mismanagement of a player we know is capable of dismantling teams this league... also placing responsibility with the board, again.

Essentially, Carvalho’s been treated with contempt since he came here. It’s bad, because a bit of TLC was all he needed. Sadly, the shortcomings of both managers - and the complicity of people who should know better - made it impossible for him to succeed at #nffc

Go well Joao x