Nottingham Forest's biggest surprise package rubs salt in wounds of former boss

Chris Wood bagged a brace as the Foxes embarrassed boss by serving up a defensive disaster class.

spearhead struck twice in the second-half as the home boss was humbled by his former club.

who was signed by Cooper from United, took his tally to four from the last three games as Nuno Espirito Santo’s men moved up to the heady heights of fifth in the table.

And Cooper’s side could have few complaints as they handed Forest their first victory at the King Power Stadium in 13 years. Although Forest caused plenty of problems, the hosts were the architects of their own downfall.

READ MORE:

READ MORE:

only had themselves to blame for falling behind in the 16th minute. Two calamitous mistakes resulted in Forest taking the lead.

The first was Facundo Buonanotte’s decision to dribble his way from the corner of his own 18-yard box. He was robbed by Elliot Anderson who scuffed the ball into the middle of the penalty area. James Justin committed the second error. It bounced up off his knee to the edge of the area where Yates collected and placed a shot inside Mads Hermansen’s right-hand post.

The Foxes hit back with a lovely goal midway through the half. Harry Winks profited from a midfield overload and charged forward. He passed to his left where Wilfred Ndidi fed Stephy Mavididi. Winks had continued his run and was spotted, his low cross being poked home by Vardy. It was the former England striker’s fourth goal this season. His legs might not move as quickly as they once did but his instincts aren’t on the wane.

By the interval, Forest had been denied twice by Hermansen - on the first of those occasions, it was spectacular.

Murillo’s shot from a corner deflected off Wood, the ball breaking to Nicolas Dominguez four yards out. The Danish keeper spread himself and the midfielder's shot cannoned into his knee and behind. Moments later, the Foxes No.1 produced a stop that showcased his talents, tipping over a fierce drive from Callum Hudson-Odoi.

Within two minutes of the re-start, Leicester proved to be their own worst enemies once more. They again surrendered possession unnecessarily in their final third. Anderson picked up the ball on the left and spotted Wood. The New Zealand international had Elanga on his outside. Instead of finding him, he swivelled and planted a shot inside the post. It was a stunning effort.

The Foxes’ misery didn’t stop there, however.

A backpass to Forest keeper Matz Sels’ on the hour saw Vardy close down the keeper and his long clearance was chased by Wood who had home defender Wout Faes for company. The Belgian international half-headed the ball towards Hermansen and Wood nipped between them lifting a delicate header over the stranded keeper and into the net.

It must have been difficult for Cooper to listen as Forest’s 3,000 supporters sang the chant they reserved for him during his time at the City Ground.

It would have stung. But probably not half as much as his own team’s defending as Forest’s campaign continues to gather momentum.

and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our