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Nottingham Post
Nottingham Post
Sport
Sarah Clapson

Nottingham Forest predicted team vs Bristol City as Steve Cooper faces big dilemma

Goalkeeper Ethan Horvath will get another chance to impress when Nottingham Forest host Bristol City this afternoon (Saturday).

But further up the pitch, head coach Steve Cooper faces something of a selection dilemma ahead of today's Championship clash.

The Reds put in a below-par display in midweek as they had to settle for a point in a 0-0 draw at Preston North End.

Horvath was the standout performer at Deepdale and is almost certain to fill in between the posts again for the suspended Brice Samba against the Robins.

Cooper opted not to make too many substitutions during the game on Tuesday night despite his team’s struggles, just bringing on Sam Surridge for Keinan Davis late on.

He might decide to mix things up at the City Ground, though, with Forest really in need of the three points to keep them in the hunt for the top six.

After a bright opening 10 minutes, they were flat and lacklustre against Preston, with an effort from James Garner the only time shot-stopper Daniel Iversen was called into action.

As he looks to get more from his side going forward next time out, Cooper could bring Philip Zinckernagel back into the starting XI.

Who would drop out for the Dane to come in is a tough call, however.

Garner, Jack Colback and Ryan Yates have all generally been doing well, but it’s likely one could miss out if the manager does decide to recall Zinckernagel.

Yates was the one to drop to the bench against Stoke City, but came on to grab a vital equaliser and had been missed during the game.

Cooper did consider switching to a back four midway through on Tuesday, and that could also be an option at the weekend - allowing for a way to fit Yates, Colback, Garner and Zinckernagel into the team.

Forest have tended to look better with a three-man defence, though, and will be keen to get on the front foot on home turf.

They go into the match sitting 10th in the table, five points below the play-off spots with 14 games to go.

Predicted Forest XI: Horvath; Worrall, Cook, McKenna; Spence, Yates, Garner, Lowe; Johnson, Davis, Zinckernagel.

What's your score prediction for Saturday? Have your say in the comments below

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