Philippe Montanier Satisfied With Nottingham Forest's Second Half Display in Hull City Friendly Loss

Nottingham Forest ended their pre-season campaign with a 2-1 defeat at home to Premier League opposition Hull City, but head coach Phillipe Montanier remained upbeat ahead of the new Sky Bet Championship season.

Interviewed after the game by the club'sofficial website, the Frenchman said, "We started very badly and in the first 20 minutes we conceded two poor goals. We had a young team out today and perhaps we were a little nervous at the beginning.

#NFFC head coach Philippe Montanier has been speaking to the media after today's 2-1 defeat to Hull City. pic.twitter.com/kBdwp5h4wQ

"But as the game went on we got much better and I saw some positive things from the team, both defensively and offensively. The main thing is that we learn from our poor start to the game and improve in certain areas.I was pleased with the reaction from the team to going 2-0 down and we started to play some good football.

"We performed well against a Premier League team and that is what we wanted from today's match.In the second half we were more organised and also more relaxed. We regained control of the match and the objective of the second half was to win it, which we did.

#NFFC supporters can now watch Oliver Burke's goal from this afternoon's pre-season friendly against Hull City.https://t.co/IVhejYzZIW

"Parts of the team are decided in my mind but it was interesting to see players like Britt Assombalonga and Jorge Grant play well today so of course there is still time for players to get themselves into the side.

"I need to make sure that we have a fully-prepared squad for next week and the month of August. We have a busy month to come and every member of the squad needs to be ready.I felt very relaxed at the start of the game, more than the players, but of course it is easier on the bench than it is on the pitch.

Pitchside with Philippe Montanier. Clearly happy with the second half. #nffc pic.twitter.com/0oVBlO6tB9

"The supporters want to see a good mentality, good teamwork and a team that gives them 100% effort and commitment and that is what we can promise them throughout the season."

Forest start the season at home to Nigel Clough's Burton Albion.