Video: Montanier on Bristol City and squad fitness
Nottingham Forest manager Philippe Montanier has defended his decision to tinker with the defence saying he would rather play defenders that are 100% fit.
Question marks have been raised over Montanier changing the back line so frequently with the Reds not winning a game in any competition in September.
Forest have picked up just three points out of the last 15 on offer in the Sky Bet Championship with manager Montanier aware of Bristol City’s successes so far this season.
The Reds play the Robins at Ashton Gate tomorrow (Saturday October 1) at 3pm.
I know we can work very well and achieve a good result
Speaking about the task facing Forest this weekend, Montanier said: “Bristol is not a good place to win at because they have a very strong team and are going through a good period.
“They are in the top six at the moment and are at a very good level and have good feet; we know it will be a tough game but I know we can work very well and achieve a good result.
“I have a good feeling about the feet of the squad even though they are tired after five consecutive games because the physio has worked well to ensure the players recover.”
Video: Mancienne on confidence and wanting to play in a settled back line
Defender Michael Mancienne thinks the clash will be ‘good’ for Forest and the Reds can only kick on once the team has more experience playing together.
He said: “I think Bristol City will come at us but it will be a good game for us.
“If we go on and win, then it breeds confidence to show that we can beat anyone in the championship which I think we can anyway.
“The signings that have come in have made the team stronger in addition to the players already here that are great and once everything clicks, hopefully we can kick on.”
Nottingham Forest v Bristol City record
Played: 85
Won: 38
Drawn: 29
Lost: 18
Henri Lansbury returns to the Reds squad after completing his suspension.
Damien Perquis picked up a knock midweek in the match against Fulham with Michael Mancienne likely to be fit after reporting pain in his abductor muscle after the same game.
Thomas Lam is fit again with Daniel Pinillos back in training working his way back to full fitness.
Bristol City are without the suspended Lee Tomlin with Mark Little a doubt after picking up a hamstring injury.
Sunshine and showers are expected in Bristol at the time of the match with temperatures reaching 12 degrees Celsius.
