Nottingham Forest moved to the brink of the Sky Bet Championship’s play-off zone with a 1-0 victory over Norwich City last night, with Mark Warburton’s side showing signs early on this season that a push for the top-six is a real possibility.  

Last night’s winning goal came from Daryl Murphy, which was the striker’s seventh Championship goal of the season.

Forest have often struggled without the 34-year-old as the focal point of their attack this season, which begs the question, just how important is he to their top-six chances?

We take a look…

George Dagless

It looks that way.

Forest have plenty of young and exuberant attackers but they do need a focal point to bring it all together.

Murphy seems the perfect figurehead to have up-front and his experience could keep them on track this season.

Sam Rourke

His experience and know-how up-front is so important for Forest.

Warburton has such a young side at his disposal, he needs experienced heads like Daryl Murphy on the pitch and in the dressing room to complement the youth.

Murphy has experience of getting promotion to the Premier League, so he'll know what it takes.

He must stay fit if Forest are to have any hope.

Chris Gallagher

Without a doubt.

He's a consistent goalscorer and brings experience to the team, two qualities that only he has from the forward options that Mark Warburton has available.

They won't be certainties for the top-six with Murphy, but you can say for sure they will not make the top-six without him.

He has to stay fit if Forest are to have a successful season and at his age that unfortunately can't be guaranteed. 

Adam Simeoni  

I love Murphy, and his form could prove the difference for Forest.

Grabbing the winner against Norwich last night, Murphy once again proved his value to Warburton's side.

At the age of 34, consideration does need to be given to Murphy's fitness, and rests such as the one he received at Birmingham are unfortunately required.

His goals could take Forest into the top-six.