Slowly but surely we are beginning to see Aitor Karanka’s influence at Nottingham Forest, with results at the City Ground improving in recent weeks.  

The club’s last four outings in the Sky Bet Championship have brought eight out of a possible 12 points, with Forest recording back-to-back victories in their last two.

Victories over Queens Park Rangers and Birmingham City have moved Forest into 15^th, with Karanka’s side on 43 points and firmly looking up the table ahead of the 11-match run-in.

Of course, it is highly unlikely we will see Forest stage a dramatic play-off push, however, Karanka’s side are showing encouraging signs ahead of next season.

Forest will be looking for a third consecutive victory tonight in the Championship, with Karanka’s side back on the road and travelling to Carrow Road to face Norwich City.

Here at FLW, we take a look at Karanka’s squad and select the starting XI we believe he should field…

Pantilimon has been good since his arrival at the City Ground, bringing experience to a key position.

He should certainly continue.

Tendayi Darikwa featured against Birmingham, but Lichaj has been so consistent this season, the £1.58m-rated defender should return to the fold.

Figueiredo has featured regularly in Forest’s positive run, providing a more solid option in the heart of defence.

Fox has been Karanka’s choice alongside Figueiredo recently, and on the back of two victories, you can’t see that changing.

Osborn has filled in on the left-side of defence and impressed.

Once again, it is hard to see Karanka tinkering with this area of his side.

Watson has been a revelation since his arrival at the City Ground, and one of Karanka’s extremely good additions.

Forest’s fans will be encouraged by the impact of the midfielder.

Like Watson, Colback has had a very good impact at the City Ground, and Karanka will be pleased with his midfield axis.

Cash scored the winner against Birmingham on Saturday, and with two goals in his last two appearances, Karanka will be looking for more of the same.

Lee Tomlin was handed the No. 10 role at the weekend, but Karanka could turn to fresh legs and bring Dowell back in.

Forest’s supporters would love to see the on-loan playmaker rediscover his best.

Another of Karanka’s additions that is impressing.

Lolley looks like a shrewd addition at the City Ground.

Murphy returns in place of Ben Brereton, who failed to impress against Birmingham.

The Irishman will be looking to get back amongst the goals if he is recalled.