By ostensibly dropping their stated plans to appoint an “iconic” manager, Nottingham Forest’s new Kuwaiti owners have made the right first move towards stewarding the fallen giant in the right fashion.

After the tumultuous 2011 to 2012 season (see the Relegation slot in this previous Game Theory piece for details), the last thing Forest needs is an all style, no substance Keegan-esque manager – likely to be a great motivator, but with zero tactical awareness. A steady pair of hands is what the club is in dire need of; one whose teams play passing football the “Forest way”, and one who, in three-to-five seasons, could realistically achieve promotion.

In Sean O’Driscoll, the owners have nailed it.

The search that culminated in O’Driscoll was a long one in footballing terms, but that’s a good thing. I have often wondered why some clubs have been so quick to appoint new gaffers, especially in the game-free summer. Better to take your time and get the appointment right. So far, so good. But that’s not to say that there aren’t any causes for concern.

One possible reason the manager search took so long is that it took that long to find an individual who is prepared to put up with the new owners’ transfer regime. According to the Daily Mail, the Al Hasawis will control every aspect of transfer policy.

But the one player signing that has been made – of former loanee midfielder Adlene Guedioura – is another step in the right direction. It may be odd for the owners to control the entire transfer policy… but if it works and O’Driscoll is happy, does it really matter?

With some more sound decisions, 2012 could prove to be the foundation year for a future Premiership push. And Forest may yet prove that icons are built – not bought.

Management ups and downs

Promotion

Team Sky
Through a revolutionary training regime, an impeccably assembled team and great tactical awareness of the course, Team Sky’s management helped Bradley Wiggins become the first Brit to win the Tour de France and his deputy, Chris Froome come in second.

Relegation

Adam Scott
The Australian’s failure to turn a four shot-lead through the home stretch of The Open this weekend – which would have been his first major tournament win – has left some commentators to suggest that it could haunt his career long-term.