After weeks of speculation the announcement that Kris Commons will be leaving Forest comes with a certain feeling of inevitability.

But the prospect of the talismanic winger signing for rivals Derby County is likely to be gut-wrenching nonetheless for Forest supporters everywhere.

When the club revealed plans to swoop for Robert Earnshaw the talk was of the club gearing up for a big-spending summer and a season in which Forest could again stamp their mark on East Midlands football.

Commons’ decision to leave the club is a blow, and if he has agreed terms with Derby County – as is expected – it will be a case of rubbing salt into an open wound.

Messageboards and forums are filling up with messages of animosity aimed at Commons, whose four years at the City Ground will now be remembered with a bitter aftertaste.

The tricky winger has enjoyed four seasons of prominence in an ailing Reds side, overcoming accusations of apathy and poor fitness to land promotion and a place in the 08/09 League One team of the year.

Commons, who has spoken at length of his childhood love for Nottingham Forest, is expected to pen a £9,000 per week deal at Pride Park later this week.

The Rumour Mill…

Forest will soften the blow of Commons’ departure by unveiling Earnshaw and Nyatanga in Red shirts…

Calderwood is keeping tabs on Jay Bothroyd, along with a series of Championship clubs…

Northampton shot-stopper Mark Bunn will join Forest for £750,000…

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