Steve Cooper praises Manchester United loanee Dean Henderson after battling Brighton draw

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Nottingham Forest manager Steve Cooper praised Manchester United loanee Dean Henderson after the goalkeeper played a starring role in helping the Reds secure a battling point away to Brighton & Hove Albion.

The 25-year-old picked up his second clean sheet of the season, and his first since August in last night’s 0-0 draw at the Seagulls.

Only Leicester City (24), who sit bottom of the table, have conceded more goals than Forest (23) this season.

But luckily for Cooper’s men, Henderson was in inspired form and the point moved Forest above Leicester and off the foot of the table.

Steve Cooper praises Dean Henderson

Henderson (60) had more touches than any other Forest player last night and he made seven saves against Roberto De Zerbi’s side, six of which were from close range.

He finished the game with 70% pass accuracy, successfully completed six long balls, as well as registering three punches, three clearances and two high claims.

Cooper was full of praise for the Manchester United Academy graduate following the goalless draw, and he’s delighted that Forest was able to bring him to the City Ground.

Speaking to Amazon Prime, Cooper said: “Dean’s made a great save in the second half, and I’m really pleased for him to get the clean sheet.

“He’s a really good goalkeeper and we’re so happy that he’s with us.”

The one-time England international gave his thoughts on Forest’s battling performance at the Amex Stadium.

Henderson said: “Every point is so valuable at this moment in time and specially to keep the clean sheet as well – for the boys out their tonight they were warriors, every man just ran their socks off and I’m so proud of the boys.

“Last couple of games I haven’t really been busy, obviously I was a bit busier tonight, but to get the clean sheet for the boys is a massive confidence [boost].”

Henderson will have no doubt been hoping England manager Gareth Southgate watched his impressive performance with the Three Lions’ World Cup squad announcement looming.

But with Jordan Pickford, Aaron Ramsdale and Nick Pope remaining fit and playing regularly, it would be a surprise to see Henderson named in the squad for Qatar.