Clough unsure over future but admits interest in Nottingham Forest job

Nigel Clough insisted he was unsure whether Burton’s 2-1 win at QPR will be his final match as Brewers boss – but admitted he is interested in a potential return to Nottingham Forest.

Clough has been given permission to speak to Forest about the managerial vacancy at the City Ground, where he made his name as a player and his late father Brian achieved legendary status as manager.

Asked if the victory at Loftus Road signalled the end of his second spell at Burton, Clough said: “I don’t know whether it is or not.

“There’s been an approach and we’ll sit down in the next few days and talk about it.

“I’m not going to be naive enough to suggest to you that I’m not interested in a club I’ve got such a long association with.

“Burton means a lot to me too. Timing in football is never good – it stinks at times.

“There’s lots to think about and lots to talk about over the next few days.

“The most important thing was to not let it get in the way of what happened today. This game has been the priority all along.”

Burton’s win was only their second in nine league matches and lifted them out of the relegation zone.

Luke Murphy’s stunning strike gave them an early lead and Lloyd Dyer doubled their lead early in the second half before Conor Washington pulled a goal back for Rangers.

“The players have been great in training as always – you saw the work-rate,” Clough added.

“It was important to get out of the bottom three and we’ve done that.

“This game today was so important for the club. Whatever happens in the next few days happens.”