Nottingham Forest’s goal was to end the January transfer window with a stronger squad than they had at the start of the month.
Head coach Steve Cooper stressed the need to recruit players who could slot straight into the starting XI. And he wanted to ensure sufficient strength in depth across the pitch to aid his team’s survival push.
The Reds have certainly brought in some good signings. Gustavo Scarpa and Danilo have already made positive impressions, while Chris Wood, Felipe, Jonjo Shelvey and Keylor Navas arrive at the City Ground with plenty of experience and proven quality.
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Injuries had a significant impact on the club’s plans, not least in the goalkeeper department. Navas is a high-calibre addition, although his arrival does pose the question of who will be first-choice once Dean Henderson returns to fitness.
Still, that’s a dilemma for further down the line. In the meantime, he has the potential to make a big difference in some crucial games ahead.
Forest have competition across the pitch now. Even with a number of players still in the treatment room, Cooper’s options have been bolstered. There is a mix of experience and exciting young talent in the squad.
Owner Evangelos Marinakis said following promotion that he would back the head coach in the transfer market. He did so in the summer, and he has proved true to his word again.
Cooper has spoken before of the challenges which came with the summer overhaul, of getting the squad to gel. The number of additions made in January means that shouldn’t prove too much of a problem this time around - bearing in mind Scarpa has been with the group for more than a month already.
Those players who signed on deadline day will join a united dressing room. And they join a team which has been on an upward curve, which is sat outside of the relegation zone.
On paper, the Reds look to have done good business. Will it be enough? Only time will tell on that front. Do Forest have enough to stay up? It certainly won’t be for the want of trying.
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