New Nottingham Forest manager Chris Hughton has claimed that consistency will be key to helping his Reds side be successful in the Championship but suggested that the likes of Leeds United and West Bromwich Albion have shown there is not one way to play.

Hughton was named the East Midlands club's new manager last week, appointed swiftly after Sabri Lamouchi was removed from the role.

Under Lamouchi, Forest have lost all four of the Championship games so far this term but their new boss has indicated that getting to the Premier League remains the target.

Speaking in an interview with The Athletic, Hughton discussed what is key to having success in the division and named dropped some of the clubs that have recently achieved it.

He explained: "Consistency. I know that is a little bit boring and perhaps a little obvious, but it is true. You have to find your way of playing. You have to have good players. But the easy answer to the question is to look at the teams who have won promotion in recent years.

“There has been a variety of teams. Leeds did it playing a certain way with a young side. West Brom did it slightly differently. Norwich had a different way again of playing.

“It is just about finding a way. Whatever the formation or style, it is about finding a way to get the best out of your players. Luck is a big factor, along with that consistency and avoiding too many injuries. There are many factors. But it all boils down to just getting the best out of your players."

The 61-year-old has serious pedigree at Championship level – having achieved a top-four finish in each of his previous four seasons in the division and won promotion to the Premier League twice.

Hughton's first game in charge of the Reds will come next weekend as they take on Blackburn Rovers at Ewood Park.

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The Verdict

Forest fans will surely be filled with confidence by their new manager's previous experience at this level and these comments show his mindset clearly.

It seems Hughton is determined to find the best way to succeed with this squad and won't be bound to playing in a particular style.

Looking at the Forest squad, he should have the assets to launch a serious promotion push despite their bad start with the hope of following in Leeds and West Brom's footsteps.