Holden enjoying the ‘feel-good factor’

The Robins take on Nottingham Forest at City Ground tomorrow (Saturday, January 19^th, 3pm KO) in the hope of securing their fifth consecutive win as part of an 11-match unbeaten streak.

That run has helped City rise up the Sky Bet Championship table, but Assistant Head Coach Dean Holden explains why the squad should remain level-headed.

“We’re on a good run at the moment; there’s a feel-good factor around the place, players are confident, there’s momentum and it’s great to be a part of,” he said. “At the same time, we need to guard against complacency which may creep in.

“The message on Monday morning after the Bolton Wanderers game was making sure we maintain standards and that’s a good base.

“Training has been bubbly as you would expect because of the run, but as I said there’s a fine line between confidence and complacency.

“As coaching staff, we keep an eye on that and make sure it doesn’t creep in. We expect the lads to carry on staying focused in training. Each training session takes care of itself and that’s stood us in good stead,” he said.

City will be backed by at least 1,470 supporters for tomorrow’s trip to the East Midlands. They will add to a bouncing atmosphere, with the hosts having sold out their allocation for Martin O’Neill’s first game in charge at Forest.

“We’re really looking forward to the game at the City Ground this weekend,” Holden continued.

“They have appointed a club legend and it’s going to make for a fantastic atmosphere..Martin was part of the 1970’s European cup-winning team.

“Younger generations will know him as a manager and a TV pundit but he was an incredible player for Nottingham Forest. I’m sure their supporters will be delighted to have him back but our fans will play their part in an incredible atmosphere.”

Tickets for the trip to City Ground remain on sale until 2pm today (Friday). Fans should note, ticket will not be available to purchase on the day.

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