After seeing Solly March’s penalty thunder over the crossbar at Wembley this Sunday, Brighton’s hopes of winning silverware are over this season.
For Forest fans, the hope is this dissapointment, coupled with the 120 minutes of end to end football played against Manchester United will give Forest an advantage over Roberto De Zerbi’s side.
Regardless of whether Brighton arrive at the City Ground with their tails between their legs or not, Forest face a stern test against one of this season’s surprise packages.
They sit 8th in the Premier League and are fighting for some form of European football next season. Their journey from newly promoted side to established top flight club, in many ways, represents the journey Forest are hoping to go on.
With only six games remaining, a win tonight is necessary if Forest are to give themselves a chance of surviving this season.
Our reporter Max Scott takes a look at the potential starting XI for this crucial clash.
1. Keylor Navas (GK)
More of the same. Wasn’t helped out by his defenders on Saturday. May be needed against a Brighton side who’ve impressed all season long. Photo: Clive Mason
2. Renan Lodi (LWB)
Kept Salah fairly quiet at the weekend. This is a testament to the defender he’s become this season. Needs to offer more going forward where possible.
3. Joe Worrall (CB)
Solid performance against Liverpool after being subbed on for the injured Scott McKenna. Played with the passion you’d expect from Mr Nottingham Forest. Would be great to see him score an unlikely goal from a set piece to push Forest outside the bottom three.
4. Felipe (CB)
Has to take control of the back line from set plays. Forest kicked themselves in the foot at the weekend and their failure to pick up points was down to their own sloppy defending. Felipe is the man with the ability and leadership to sort this out.