Reds showing all the right qualities

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It may be very early days in terms of a Championship season but Nottingham Forest are already showing signs of real character and quality.

The Reds have a potent mix of squad depth, pace, power, goalscoring ability and natural width. We also have adaptability in terms of formations to suit whichever tactics Stuart Pearce thinks are necessary.

Add to that the passion and team unity that ‘the Skipper’ is so keen to implement and there should be no reason why, injuries permitting, we can’t have a successful season.

For the last few years or so, a top six finish has been the main aim but you get the impression our sights are set a little higher this time. With the current squad at his disposal, Pearce will undoubtedly be looking to secure a top two berth rather than risk the lottery of the playoffs.

There’s a real feel good factor on Trentside at the moment. Forest remain unbeaten in all competitions going into the international break which sets it up nicely for the East Midlands derby against Derby County live on Sky Sports.

Form obviously goes out of the window in these sort of games but Pearce will certainly be rallying his troops and making sure every single player knows exactly what it means to each and every supporter at the club.

Pearce needs no introduction to the fierce rivalry that Forest and Derby share – I’m sure Ted McMinn is acutely aware of what it means to him too.

I’m sure Pearce won’t want his players making that sort of ‘tackle’ nowadays as it’d probably lead to the referee reaching for a card to match the colour of our shirts but the point I’m making is that the players will be up for it. They will be up for the fight and willing to continue showing the type of pride, passion and character that they have shown already this season so far.

Another major plus point is the growing structure behind the scenes. It’s been no secret we have needed a Chief Executive in place to help with the day-to-day running of the club and the appointment of Paul Faulkner is a very good one. He comes with bags of experience following his time at Aston Villa and it will be interesting to see if he continues his passion towards safe standing as he did at Villa Park.

In the Nigel Doughty Youth Academy, another shrewd signing is Kevin MacDonald as lead professional development phase coach. Again, he has a wealth of experience and comes with a super reputation of developing and nurturing young talent.

Both on and off the pitch, Forest are starting to look like the real deal and I for one am extremely excited and confident that we can have a successful campaign under the guidance of my hero.

If they can sort out the beer problems in the Lower Bridgford at half time, I’ll be even more happy!

So with a true Psycho salute…Come on You Reds!

You can follow Dan on Twitter at @DanMounser – and don’t forget to follow @FanZone too for links to all the latest blogs.