Nottingham Forest netted after just 17 seconds during Saturday’s 2-0 win over Ipswich Town, with Britt Assombalonga proving to be the difference between the two sides after a typically clinical brace.
It ended a baron run of form for the Reds and lifted some of the pressure currently surrounding the uncertainty of boss Philippe Montanier’s future.
There is still work to be done at the City Ground. Saturday’s win was the team’s first away win of the campaign, along with their first clean sheet since March.
For Montanier’s men it is vital that they show the same level of performance over the coming weeks, as they attempt to pull even further clear of the relegation zone and climb the Championship table.
With January on the horizon, the Reds could look towards strengthening their squad and with that in mind, Football League World writer Lee Clarke looks at three Premier League players who the club should sign on loan.
Peter Crouch
The former England striker barely makes the squad at Stoke City these days and his time at the club looks to be coming to an end.
The Reds could do with another striker and Crouch’s credentials in the game would make him a good addition to the Forest squad.
The lanky striker would form a formidable partnership with Britt Assombalonga, with a loan move ideal for Forest in assessing whether Crouch would be a good permanent signing in the summer.
Michael Kightly
The Burnley winger is down the pecking order at Turf Moor and the 30-year-old has been linked with a move to the City Ground previously during his career.
Kightly offers a quality burst of pace and can beat opponents with an array of skill, something which Forest have lacked on occasions this season.
It remains to be seen whether Kightly is on Forest’s radar but he is certainly a player who could improve the current squad.
Timothy Fosu-Mensah
The versatile Manchester United man was a regular in the first-team fold under former Red Devils boss Louis van Gaal, but he has found himself deemed surplus under Jose Mourinho.
With doubts over the fitness of David Vaughan and Chris Cohen, the Dutchman could well do a job in the middle of the park for the Reds, whilst he would act as perfect backup for the back line.
United do not appear to consider Fosu-Mensah as part of their squad at the moment and a loan move would be ideal for his development.
Nottingham Forest fans, would you welcome these three Premier League players on loan at the City Ground? Who else should the club consider swooping for? Let us know in the comments below!!!