Paul Merson delivers 'harsh' Nottingham Forest prediction after Premier League start

Paul Merson has predicted Nottingham Forest will finish in the bottom seven of the Premier League this season.

Steve Cooper's team have claimed two wins, while losing twice in the opening five games, which includes a 1-0 win over Chelsea. Following a 1-1 draw with Burnley last time out, Forest sit eighth and are just three points off the top-six.

The Reds' league position also sees them sit above Newcastle, Manchester United and Chelsea. This time last year, the side were 15th after five games, with one win and three defeats to their name.

Writing in his Sky Sports column, Merson highlighted United's poor start while expressing concern for Chelsea. He also predicted Luton Town, Bournemouth and Forest to struggle this campaign.

He wrote: "I do worry, Chelsea have got to get going. And this hasn't been the hardest start in the world.

"Apart from Liverpool on the opening day, every team they've played could finish in the bottom half of the table. Maybe that's harsh on West Ham given the way they've started.

"But Bournemouth, Luton, Nottingham Forest - if they're not in the bottom six or seven, I'd be shocked."