Nottingham Forest have had a good start to life under Martin O'Neill, with the side just three points away from the play-offs as we approach the final few months of the season.

And, Nottinghamshire Live have revealed that the Reds could be boosted by the return of Michael Dawson, with the experienced defender ready to resume training.

However, the ex-Spurs man will be aware that he has a very tough task in getting back into the side.

Since the new boss came in, Forest have been very strong defensively with the likes of Alexander Milosevic and particularly Yohan Benalouane giving the side a bit of steel at the back.

With Molla Wague another option, Dawson will have to show his ability in training to catch the attention of O'Neill but he has to feel that he is the type of player the manager likes.

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The ex-Celtic boss demands a strong defensive unit and he is traditional in the sense that he wants his centre-backs to clear the ball, be aggressive and dominate the striker.

As well as that, there's no playing out from the back which is not an area where the former England international excels.

Therefore, O'Neill's approach suits the 35-year-old who is also a real leader and that should give Dawson the encouragement he needs to force his way back into Forest's XI.

It's an exciting time to be at the East Midlands club and Dawson will be desperate to play a part in helping the club he came through the ranks at back to the Premier League.

Thoughts? Let us know in the comments below.