Premier League
Ryan Yates Praised For Dark Arts As Nottingham Forest Leader Earns Recognition
Every team has that one player you love if he’s yours — and hate if he’s not. For Nottingham Forest, that player is Ryan Yates.
And according to former captain Henri Lansbury, that’s exactly why he’s so important.
The Art Of Winning Ugly
Football isn’t always about flair and fancy footwork. Sometimes, it’s about doing whatever it takes to win — and Yates has mastered that balance perfectly.
Often labeled as a “master of dark arts,” the Forest captain knows how to frustrate opponents, disrupt rhythm, and shift momentum in his team’s favor.
And as Lansbury puts it: “It does win you games.”
That ability to get under the skin of opponents? It’s not luck — it’s a skill.
A True Forest Story
Yates isn’t just another player passing through the club. He’s one of their own.
Coming through the academy and making over 260 appearances, he represents everything the club stands for — passion, commitment, and resilience.
From promotion hero in 2022 to club captain, his journey is one every fan can connect with.
He’s not just playing for Forest — he’s living the dream.
Leading By Example
What makes Yates stand out isn’t just his mentality — it’s his work rate.
Tackles, pressing, energy, and the occasional goal — he does the fundamentals right, game after game. And when he wears the armband, those qualities only become more visible.
He doesn’t just talk like a leader. He plays like one.
Why The “Dark Arts” Matter
In modern football, marginal gains can make all the difference — especially in the Premier League.
One frustrated opponent.
One broken rhythm.
One moment of lost focus.
That’s all it takes to change a game.
Players like Yates understand that — and use it to their advantage.
More Than Football
Beyond the pitch, Lansbury is also using his platform to support an important cause — raising awareness for testicular cancer through the “Check Your Bally’s” campaign.
It’s a reminder that football can drive impact far beyond results and rivalries.
The Perfect Captain For The Moment
Nottingham Forest may have bigger stars or flashier names, but few players embody the spirit of the club quite like Ryan Yates.
In a league where every edge counts, having someone who can mix passion with a bit of controlled chaos is priceless.
Love him or hate him — he gets the job done.
Want To Advertise With Us?
Reach thousands of football fans worldwide. Partner with us today at sales@ventolitemarketing.com
-
World Cup 202613 hours agoJoe Cole backs England to beat Argentina as he claims Three Lions will ‘put Lionel Messi to bed’
-
World Cup 202613 hours agoJude Bellingham and Thomas Tuchel’s fiery relationship is driving England forward at the World Cup
-
World Cup 202613 hours agoCristiano Ronaldo gets backing from Jorge Jesus as new Portugal boss confirms Al-Nassr star remains central to World Cup plans
-
World Cup 202613 hours agoTed Lasso star Cristo Fernandez fulfils football dream with professional debut for El Paso Locomotive
-
World Cup 202613 hours agoKylian Mbappe has the perfect chance to silence his Spanish critics against Spain in World Cup semi-final
-
World Cup 20265 hours ago**Title:** Croatia confirm Slaven Bilic return as former West Ham boss replaces Zlatko Dalic **Meta Description:** Slaven Bilic has been appointed Croatia head coach for a second spell after Zlatko Dalic stepped down following the 2026 World Cup. **Slug:** croatia-confirm-slaven-bilic-return-head-coach **Alt Image Text:** Slaven Bilic during his unveiling as Croatia national team head coach — # Croatia confirm Slaven Bilic return as former West Ham boss replaces Zlatko Dalic Croatia have officially confirmed the return of Slaven Bilic as head coach, with the former West Ham United manager replacing Zlatko Dalic following the conclusion of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Bilic returns to the national team after more than a decade away, ending a two-year absence from management as he begins a second spell in charge of his country. ## Bilic begins a second spell with Croatia The Croatian Football Federation (HNS) announced Bilic’s appointment after the Executive Committee unanimously approved the recommendation of federation president Marijan Kustic. Bilic previously managed Croatia between 2006 and 2012, guiding the national team through two European Championships before embarking on a successful club coaching career that included spells with West Ham United, West Bromwich Albion, Besiktas and Al-Ittihad. The federation believes his experience and deep understanding of Croatian football make him the ideal candidate to lead the next generation. ## Huge task replacing Zlatko Dalic Bilic succeeds one of the most successful managers in Croatia’s history. Dalic stepped down after the 2026 World Cup, bringing an end to a remarkable tenure that included a World Cup final, a World Cup semi-final and several memorable tournament campaigns. Federation president Marijan Kustic acknowledged the size of the challenge but expressed complete confidence in Bilic. > “I would like to once again thank Zlatko for the exceptional results he achieved during his tenure. It is not easy to follow in his footsteps, but we are convinced Slaven is the right person for this role.” Kustic added that Bilic’s international pedigree and extensive coaching experience were decisive factors behind the appointment. ## Bilic honoured to return Bilic described his return as the greatest honour of his coaching career and admitted he understands the expectations that come with leading one of international football’s most consistent tournament teams. > “I would like to thank President Kustic and the Federation’s leadership for the confidence they have shown in allowing me to lead the Croatian national team once again — the greatest honour for any Croatian coach.” The 57-year-old also praised the standards established under Dalic while insisting he is ready for the responsibility. > “I am fully aware of the high expectations that follow such a remarkable period under Zlatko Dalic, but anyone who takes charge of Croatia must be prepared for that because we are a football nation that lives and breathes its national team.” ## A new chapter begins Bilic now faces the task of building on Dalic’s legacy while preparing Croatia for the next international cycle. With a blend of experienced stars and emerging young talent at his disposal, Croatia will hope their returning manager can guide them to another successful era on the international stage.
-
Sports Analysis6 hours agoAndoni Iraola backs Harvey Elliott to revive Liverpool career after difficult Aston Villa loan
-
Other News14 hours agoTony Cascarino reveals what Cole Palmer must do to emulate Chelsea legends Gianfranco Zola and Eden Hazard