Nottingham Forest secured a much-needed win against Burton Albion in what was the perfect response to their defeat to bitter rivals Derby County.

The Reds dominated the game against Nigel Clough’s men and have now recorded back-to-back home wins.

Another major positive for manager Mark Warburton will be the clean sheet, which was only Forest’s third of the season. Given those defensive issues, the ex-Rangers manager has regularly switched personnel in defence, with youngster Joe Worrall missing out in recent games.

However, an injury to Armand Traore after just 23 minutes saw the centre-back come on. And, these stats by @TheLadOnTheBall show, Worrall was a key figure for the rest of the game.

He made eight clearances and three blocks and tackles as Forest stood firm. However, a pleasing aspect will be his 92.1% passing accuracy.

Warburton’s sides are known for playing out from the back, so it’s a trait that all his defenders must have.

Clearly, Worrall is capable on the ball and he was influential in starting attacks for the Reds.

He will hope that performance has done enough to warrant him a starting berth this Saturday at Hull City.

The Verdict

It was a vital win for Nottingham Forest and Joe Worrall can be delighted with his contribution in the victory. Given the way things have gone recently, you would expect his confidence to be down, but he delivered a commanding display.

From the traditional defensive aspects such as heading it and kicking it, to playing out, he was assured. Now, it will be about finding that consistency.

Given his age, mistakes are inevitable, but Saturday’s performance might’ve convinced Mark Warburton to put Worrall back in his first XI for the upcoming games.

Thoughts, Forest fans? Should Joe Worrall be a starter? Let us know in the comments below.