The 1998-99 campaign delivered a devastating end for Nottingham Forest as The Reds finished a crushing 20th in the Premier League, resulting in relegation after a season marred by chaos. The year was defined by the stunning pre-season drama of star striker Pierre van Hooijdonk going AWOL, and a tumultuous mid-season managerial change that saw Ron Atkinson return to management but fail to save the side. Dougie Freedman's 9 crucial league goals were sadly insufficient to overcome the struggles, which peaked with a humiliating 1-8 home defeat to rivals Manchester United. It remains an unforgettable, dark chapter that saw the historic club drop to the bottom tier for the third time in seven years.