Things were looking bleak for Nottingham Forest at the end of October as a 2-0 loss against Reading condemned them to three straight league defeats and had them staring a relegation dogfight in the face.

But since then, Forest have picked up and are undefeated in four.

Nottingham Forest have won their last three games in the league, including a Friday night late victory over Champions-elect Newcastle United, which really showed they mean business.

They have rocketed away from the bottom three and up into thirteenth place in the league.

The mood in the camp is more optimistic and they will be aware that they now sit just six points off the play-off zone with form on their side.

And there's no reason why Forest shouldn't be competing for promotion with talented youngsters like Ben Osborn and Joe Worrall to complement experienced quality players such as Britt Assombalonga and Henri Lansbury.

Here are three "marquee" signings they should look at in January to fire them to a play-off spot.

Alex Smithies

One area that Nottingham Forest could really do with strengthening is goalkeeper.

Vladimir Stojkovic is competent but could easily be upgraded and Alex Smithies would be an ambitious stopper to target.

The QPR goalkeeper is integral to the West London outfit and has established himself as one of the finest 'keepers in the second tier.

Jackson Irvine

Jackson Irvine only arrived at Burton Albion this summer but he has been a revelation for the Brewers and is almost single-handedly keeping them out of the relegation zone.

The central midfielder has hit seven goals from midfield and has been crucial to Nigel Clough's tactics.

If Nottingham Forest poached the Australia international, he would be the perfect partner for Lansbury in central midfield with Lam just behind the attack-minded duo.

Tyrone Mings

Tyrone Mings is not getting much game time at Bournemouth last year after suffering a devastating injury last season and he just needs to be playing regularly to get his career back on track.

A half-season loan move to the Championship would be extremely beneficial for Mings and Nottingham Forest would be an ideal destination.

The left-sided centre back is strong, quick and reliable and would work well in a back three.

 

Nottingham Forest fans - would you take any of these 3? Who do you need to bring in this January? Let us know in the comments below...