Nottingham Forest's loan star Leo Bonatini has admitted he's winning his battle for match fitness and soon hopes to start a game, as reported by Nottingham Live.

The Wolves striker joined Martin O'Neill's side on deadline day and has made four Championship appearances, only one of which has come from the start.

He's set to battle Lewis Grabban, Daryl Murphy and Karim Ansarifard for a place in the squad.

When asked about his current fitness, the 24-year-old replied: “It’s getting better. I spoke this week with the gaffer and he said that he is happy with my fitness."

“The game I played with the Under-23s has helped me as well. Having some minutes is important for me. Hopefully I’m here to help and am looking forward to starting a game."

The competition for places is something the Brazilian is aware of, but he claimed he's here to 'support and help' the current squad in their current attempt to reach the top six.

“There is some tough competition. The guys who were already here have played loads of games, and the team is in this position because of them. The players who have arrived in January, we are here to support them and to help them."

Bonatini moved to Molineux from Al-Hilal in 2017, initially on loan before making the switch permanent last summer.

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The Verdict

Bonatini has a lot to prove to the English game. He started well at Wolves but faded badly and looked out of his depth in the top flight.

Forest have a mountain to climb but if he can get into the side, he might be able to make a name for himself.

He certainly won't do it if he's unfit on the bench.