What with the international break and the sacking of the England boss Steve McLaren, it seems like an eternity since the Reds have kicked a ball in anger. But it will be back to business on Saturday, as Forest entertain Crewe at the City Ground.
The Reds looked as though they were beginning to hit on another good run before the break came and they will be hoping to continue where they left off in League 1 after the impressive 4-1 thumping of high flying Southend. After what was beginning to look like a bit of a blip, the lads picked themselves up and have taken 7 points from the last 9.
Crewe aren’t doing too badly themselves and are unbeaten in the last 6. After a slow start The Railwaymen have climbed up to 10th in the table and sit only 4 points off Forest in 3rd. They have a reputation for playing a passing game and it will be interesting to see if old Dario has unearthed anymore gems to go alongside the likes of Lennon, Danny Murphy, Robbie Savage and Dean Ashton. The only black mark in his illustrious coaching career, is that he’s the man who gave David Platt his first start in the pro game. Cheers Dario.
Vital Quotes:
Nottingham Team News:
For the first time this season it looks as though Calderwood will have a full squad to select from. Lockwood is back in contention, but surely Bennett has done enough to keep his place? Grant Holt played 30 mins for the Stiffs on Tuesday, but this game may come too early for him.
We await the return from international duty of trio Agogo, Clingan and Davies. All are expected to return fit, but Agogo could be knackered after only returning from Ghana 24 hours before the game.
Player to watch: Junior Agogo.
Scored again in midweek for Ghana in the friendly with Benin. He’s the top scorer with 8 and is in the best form of his Forest career at the moment.
Crewe Alexandra Team News:
Crewe will be missing striker Nicky Maynard, who has a broken leg. Also out are Lee Barnard and Steve Schumacher. It’s not known yet whether the City Ground faithful will renew their love affair with former Tricky Eugen Bopp, as in recent weeks he’s had to settle for a bench place. Just before the transfer deadline, The Railwaymen have brought in Manchester United youngster David Gray on loan.
Player to watch: Ryan Lowe
In the absence of Nicky Maynard, keep an eye on midfielder Ryan Lowe. He plays on both flanks and can score from anywhere.
Match Facts & Stats
Last season at the CG the Reds fought for a 0-0 draw. In the return match at Gresty Road Nathan Tyson struck with the perfect hat-trick, in a 4-1 win.
Previous League meetings between the sides sees Forest with 8 wins, 4 draws and 2 defeats.
Match Prediction:
2-1 to the Trickies.
Next Fixtures:
FAC, 1st round replay v Lincoln.
November 27, 2007. 7.45pm.
