Steve Cooper's emotional speech to Nottingham Forest fans as he hails 'powerful connection'

Boss Steve Cooper spoke of his “powerful connection” with Nottingham Forest fans as they turned out in their thousands to celebrate promotion to the Premier League.

The city’s Old Market Square was jam-packed for a special event to mark the Reds’ return to the top-flight, following Sunday’s victory at Wembley. Cooper and his squad, along with owner Evangelos Marinakis, appeared on the Council House balcony and were serenaded by the crowd below.

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The head coach even did his trademark fist-pumps as supporters revelled in a carnival atmosphere. It was a fitting end to a remarkable season which saw Forest go from bottom of the table when Cooper arrived last September to being crowned play-offs winners.

Making his appearance on the balcony, Cooper said: “To all the Nottingham Forest supporters, welcome back to the Premier League! Every single game at the City Ground, every single away game, it’s been a sell-out. You dominate every stadium. You are the best.

“We did it together. It’s not about any individual - player, coach, member of staff - it’s about us being together.

“We get supported in so many numbers, with real passion and pride. When we play at the City Ground, it’s a coming together of the city.

“For me, it’s the