Though Nottingham Forest are a big club, well supported and historically successful, expectations of a promotion push this season were, perhaps, a little tempered as the East Midlands side weren't amongst the bookies' favourites.

Forest, former European Cup winners, have been a second-tier side for some time now and - though reaching the play-offs on occasions - have rarely looked like making a return to the Premier League since their relegation in 1999.

Indeed the Trentside club has spent a few seasons in League One during that time and the club has been through some tough times over the last 20 years or so.

Forest had appeared to settle into a mid-table Championship team, a 'sleeping giant' so to speak and a club that was capable - if not necessarily expected - to be a real force at this level if galvanised.

This season - though still in its infancy - looks like things may be different, however. Forest are flying - going somewhat 'under the radar' - as manager Sabri Lamouchi has brought the consistency that was previously lacking.

Former French international midfielder Lamouchi led an illustrious playing career, starring for the likes of Monaco, Parma and Inter Milan, and although his managerial career is yet to hit the same heights, he's certainly getting the best out of his squad on the red side of Nottingham.

Forest are unbeaten in the Sky Bet Championship since an opening day defeat to current leaders West Bromwich Albion at the City Ground, and currently sit third - one point behind the 'Baggies' and below Swansea on goal difference.

So what's changed? Ultimately, it could be that Lamouchi's side has got a great balance to it, the right mix for success in a relentless Championship division.

Goalkeeper Brice Samba has settled in well following his move from French football, aided by a backline full of both experience and endeavour.

35-year-old Michael Dawson plays alongside the more technically gifted Joe Worrall at the heart of the defence, while forward-thinking full-backs Jack Robinson and Matty Cash are given the freedom to offer width.

Holding midfielder Ben Watson has had plenty of plaudits for his influence in the central areas this season - usually alongside former Lens and Dynamo Moscow man Samba Sow.

In forward areas, striker Lewis Grabban is very capable at Championship level and is ably supported by the creative yet hard-working talents of Joe Lolley, Sammy Ameobi and João Carvalho.

This is surely the key reason for Nottingham Forest's strong start - balance, in every aspect. Unbeaten in their last eight Championship games, Forest have a unit that is both willing and able both in and out of possession.

Lamouchi has put together a nice blend of youth and experience, willing to work for one another and 'dig in' when necessary. They also have the potency of Grabban supplied by the excellent Joe Lolley and unpredictable Ameobi and, as Lamouchi has got the balance right between pragmatism and threat, his Forest team are hitting the heights that were previously beyond them.