Nottingham Forest have been told why their Champions League challenge faltered as they prepare for a “must-win” game at West Ham on Sunday.
The Reds, relegation candidates just a year ago, have taken the Premier League by storm this season under head coach Nuno Espirito Santo.
They were in the top three for much of the season, and at one point looked nailed-on for a Champions League challenge next term.
However, a run of just one win in their last six games has seen that challenge fade, so much so in fact that failure to win at the London Stadium means they will probably have to settle for a place in one of the lesser European competitions.
While that is a brilliant achievement in itself, BBC football presenter and Forest fan Darren Fletcher believes he knows just why Nuno and Co have struggled of late.
He told listeners to BBC Radio 5Live’s Premier League kick-off show: “I looked the other day and eight players have started at least 29 Premier League matches this season. They've had a long run in the FA Cup as well.
“But Forest didn't do anything in January because they couldn't find the players they they wanted to get in. At the same time, Manchester City bought four in, Aston Villa bought Donyell Malen, Marcus Rashford, Marco Asensio. Forest didn't do anything, they've tried to get through the season with what they've got.
“They can do it when their best 11 is functioning properly and everything's fine, but fatigue and injuries are a factor at the back end of the season, and I think that's what has really hurt them.
“Still, it’s the first time in 30 years they're in Europe and people are talking about it being a disappointing end to the season - it's a bizarre conundrum.”
Fletcher admits fans will be disappointed by the way the season had fallen away, despite it being an impressive upturn on what went before. He added: “Yes, if they they don't get to the Champions League, then they will now be disappointed.
“My view would be that they should see this as a long-term build, that they want to be around these positions season upon season.
“If you look at this from a farther distance, that might be a better way to build the side, build it a little bit more patiently than having to bring in loads of players for the Champions League next season.
“Either way, I think it has to be a win. The fact they're going to play in Europe next season, and they've had the kind of year they've had, has to be a positive for them.”
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