Rotherham United secured their place in the Championship in dramatic style last season as they won the League One play-off final against Leyton Orient in a penalty shootout. Steve Evan's men haven't been in very good form of late though after picking up a couple of impressive results early on in the campaign. Their last win came on October 17th as they beat local rivals Leeds United 2-1 at the New York Stadium, much to the delight of the home support. However, they haven't won since then meaning they have gone eight games straight without a victory. Their last outing was a credible 0-0 draw away at Cardiff City which could give themselves something to build on this weekend. Their desperate need for a win could make them tougher opposition for Forest this weekend. In comparison, Forest have also been struggling to get any form together recently. This is shown that it in their last three games they have won one, drawn one and lost one. The performances have also been very inconsistent as they have failed to find the level of performance they produced in the 3-0 win away at Wolves ever since. However, Forest do only sit three points off the play-off places meaning that this is a very important match which on paper they should be winning. A win would provide a massive boost for the team going into the run of festive fixtures.
The Rotherham United players celebrate securing promotion to the Sky Bet Championship at Wembley.
Forest have no fresh injury concerns ahead of the trip to the New York Stadium. Henri Lansbury has recovered from a slight back problem he suffered against Charlton last weekend. Chris Burke and Danny Fox have also recovered from a bug going around during the week. This means that Stuart Pearce has got a fully fit squad to choose from apart from long-term absentees Jack Hobbs, Andy Reid and Chris Cohen. Forest received some great news during the week in the fact that Hobbs and Reid should be back playing around Christmas which is a huge boost to the side.
My prediction for this game is Rotherham United 0-3 Nottingham Forest. I think Forest are well overdue a good performance and I think today is the day for it. I don't think Rotherham are a particularly good side and I think Forest should comfortably win here on paper. Britt Assombalonga will be fit and fired up after missing out through suspension last weekend, making it a perfect opportunity for him to add to his tally. I think the sold out away end will lead Forest onto what would be a very precious victory.
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