Having avoided the drop on the final day of the season last semester, Nottingham Forest fans looked to the new campaign with fresh optimism that their side could challenge for a place in the Championship top-six.

With Mark Warburton at the helm in his first full season in charge, the former Rangers boss invested the money recouped from the £15 million sale of Britt Assombalonga in the summer window, bringing in a wealth of top talent to turn his side into promotion candidates.

At times Forest have lived up to that tag, but inconsistency has halted any chance of making a long-awaited Premier League return.

The Reds have won back-to-back games just once all season, a stat that will greatly concern their manager and fans of the club.

A young squad with an abundance of academy graduates swelling their ranks, Forest have shown a lack of experience, and Warburton must address this issue when the winter transfer window opens for business.

With that in mind, deals for these two players could be targeted…

Ashley Barnes

Forest have men scoring goals, but behind Daryl Murphy, there is a distinct lack of experience in the forward roles.

Young Tyler Walker and summer signing Jason Cummings have shown signs of their youth at times this season, although the talented pair are showing equal signs of massive potential and the ability to play a role in the side now.

Perhaps Warburton needs another experienced head to ease the load on Murphy, and Barnes could be the perfect addition to the squad.

The 28-year-old has seen chances limited at Burnley following the arrival of Chris Wood in the summer, and may consider a Championship switch to secure regular first-team action.

This would be a coup if Warburton can pull a deal off, but one that could see Forest launch a sustained promotion bid next season.

Ashley Westwood

Sticking with Ashley’s from Burnley, Westwood would also add a new dimension to the midfield at The City Ground.

The 27-year-old has played just 80 minutes of Premier League football this season, and is growing increasingly frustrated at the lack of opportunities afforded to him at Turf Moor.

A deep-lying playmaker with the ability to run games, Westwood is wasted on the bench in the north west, and Warburton should do what it takes to add the former Aston Villa man to his midfield.

Alongside the likes of Ben Osborn and Liam Bridcutt, Forest would be able to boast one of the strongest central midfield units in the division.

Forest fans, which area of your squad do you feel needs the most attention in January? Have your say below...