Martin O'Neill linked with Nottingham Forest

Martin O'Neill has been tipped to make asensational early return to management by taking over the reigns at his formerclub Nottingham Forest. O'Neill quit Aston Villa just five daysbefore the Premier League kicked off but has emerged as the front runner toreplace Forest boss Billy Davies. On the move? O'Neill has already said goodbye to Villa but could he be on his way to the City Ground Cracks have begun to emerge in Davies'relationship with chairman Nigel Doughty since the two fell out over proposedsignings and the imposition of a 'transfer acquisitions committee'.Forest's future? O'Neill - seen here at a memorial service for Brian Clough - enjoyed great success with the clubForest reached theplay-offs last season but are without a win so far this term and the lure ofbringing such a big name to the City Ground could prove too much for Doughty toresist. O'Neill was a hero during his playing daysunder legendary boss Brian Clough. The Ulsterman was part of the sides who twicebecame European champions. And although O'Neill was famously omittedfrom the final squad in 1979, he was part of the team which defeated Hamburg in 1980. According to reports, close friendsbelieve a move to NottinghamForest is the only job hewould consider outside the Premier League.The move, though contentious so early inthe season, would be a popular one with the Forestfaithful -- made all the more desirable as John Robertson would join as part ofthe deal. Robertson was also part of the triumphantEuropean Cup winning teams and was recently voted the club's all-time best player.  USA coach Bradley reveals contact with Villa over bid to replace O'NeillWest Ham make £2.5m move for Aston Villa defender YoungRIO FERDINAND: We lost our way in South Africa but we CAN win World CupASTON VILLA FC

Source: Daily_Mail