After a much needed first Premier League win in eleven games, Nottingham Forest travel to the Gtech Community Stadium with a renewed optimism that they can escape relegation this season.
With five games remaining, Steve Cooper’s side have put together a run of performances that culminated in a 3-1 victory against Brighton and Hove Albion on Wednesday.
Forest’s head coach has shifted to a back three, with wing-backs offering more in midfield and on the counter attack.
One of the standout performers has been Danilo. The young Brazilian signed a six-and-a-half-year deal in January and has begun to find his feet in the English game.
With the in-form midfielder celebrating his 22nd birthday today, travelling fans will be hoping he gives them another performance to celebrate.
Although Forest have suffered yet more injuries to Moussa Niakhate and Neco Williams, the starting XI will likely look similar to the one the ended the tie against Brighton.
Our reporter Max Scott predicts Cooper’s starting side:
1. Keylor Navas
No brainer - made another fantastic save in the first half afainst Brighton. Will need to keep the dangerous Ivan Toney out for Forest to get a result.
2. Renan Lodi
Crucial performance on Wednesday against Brighton. More of the same needed - when fit, he’s Cooper’s number one pick in this position.
3. Joe Worrall
Worrall has stepped up whenever called upon. Despite being left out for Aurier last Wednesday, he put in a brilliant defensive performance when he replaced the injured Niakhate. Will play with the fight needed by Forest in this game.
4. Felipe
Bouyed after his long-awaited first win in the Garibaldi, Felipe has become a cult-hero since his arrival. Will need to keep the defence’s head on a swivel to keep Brentford out and ensure the mistakes made at Liverpool are a one-off.