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30th Dec, 2016 | 9:52pm

Senior figure needs to leave: Three things we learned about Nottingham Forest from loss v Newcastle

By Amir Mir

Football Insider analyses the three talking points after Nottingham Forest suffered a 3-1 defeat to Newcastle at St James’ Park on Friday night.

Philippe Montanier’s time is up – One clean sheet in 24 games as a Championship manager simply is not good enough. There may be distractions off the field, but that does not stop the team from keeping it tight at the back. Those in charge of the club need to act quickly and get rid of the Frenchman before it is too late. There is no doubt that the Midlands giants are fighting relegation, but there are far better managers out there who can get a lot more out of these players. If the ownership does change hand then there first priority must be to appoint someone like Garry Rowett as manager.

Henri Lansbury a big miss – There is a reason why the former Arsenal man wears the captain’s armband, but he has been a big since being injured in early December. Prior to his absence, his side has picked up three wins on the bounce, but they have now lost four out of five games. There is a lot of speculation surrounding his future at the City ground, but if Forest have any ambitions of staying in the division then they must keep hold of Lansbury.

Heading for League One – Forest are six points above the relegation zone with the majority of those below them having a game in hand. They may prove to be a great attacking threat but defensively they are woeful as they proved at St James’ Park. The Midlands side have conceded 44 goals in 24 games, only rock-bottom Rotherham have conceded more. Too many mistakes at the back, spaces for the opposition to attack clearly shows that this side is lacking organisation and toughness.

In other Nottingham Forest news, the incoming Forest managers are planning mega changes.