Forest begin a series of four tough away games on the bounce with a trip to Swansea on Saturday. Although sitting second in the table, the Reds’ will need to get at least a draw to keep them in contention with those at the top.
Vital Quotes:
Swansea City Team News:
The Swans have been inconsistent so far this season, but will be high on confidence after knocking Premiership new boys Sheff Utd out of the FA Cup two weeks ago. The last five League games sees them with only one defeat, two draws and two wins. Forest have won two, lost two and drawn one.
Swansea will be without midfielder Kristian O’leary who begins a three match ban after he was was sent off for punching in the game against Bradford. Don’t be too harsh on him though, as it was against Dean Windass. Unfortunately Lee Trundle should be back in contention for a place after serving a three match ban for an elbowing incident in the game against Huddersfield, where they threw away a two goal lead, to lose 3-2.
Player to watch: Lee Trundle
What with suspensions and injuries the striker has only played 15 League games this season, but he has found the net on 11 occasions. His temperament can be questioned at times and this season he has picked up one red and one yellow card. One thing is certain and that is, he knows how to score, especially against Forest.
Nottingham Forest Team News:
The Reds’ will still be without the suspended Clingan and Cullip, but should be able to recall Nicky Southall after his one match suspension. Kris Commons will still be out for several weeks with a hamstring. Youngster Lewis McGugan will be hopeful of a place in the squad, after impressing as a sub in the Yeovil game.
The last time the sides met in September, a Rory Fallon header put the Swans in front. But thirteen glorious second half minutes saw Forest run out 3-1 winners. A repeat of that performance would be too much to ask ahead of the game against last years Premiership winners Chelsea. Personally, I’d take the draw and no fresh injury worries.
Player to watch: Grant Holt
Holt is having an excellent season for the Reds’ and has scored an impressive fourteen goals so far. The big man has been singled out for praise this week by boss Colin Calderwood.
Match Facts & Stats
The two sides have previously met 49 times in the League and Forest just have the edge with 19 defeats, 9 draws and 21 victories.
Next Fixtures:
Chelsea. Away. FAC4. 28 January 2007. 2pm.
