Brighton and Hove Albion have enjoyed a fine start to the season under their new manager Fabian Hurzeler but the game against Forest could be his toughest team selection yet.
The Seagulls are unbeaten under the German with Premier League victories against Everton and Manchester United, followed by a draw at Arsenal and a stalemate against Ipswich last time out at the Amex. Albion have also advanced to the fourth round of the Carabao Cup thanks to victories against Crawley Town and last night’s 3-2 win against Wolves.
Hurzeler has had injury issues to contend with and will hope to have some of his top performers – such as Joao Pedro and Mats Wieffer – back this Sunday against Nottingham Forest.
Hurzeler also has to make a decision on Yankuba Minteh, who has struggled to find his best form, while Pedro could come in for record signing Georginio Rutter.
Here's Brighton's strongest XI to face Nottingham Forest, as it stands...
5. Jan Paul van Hecke - CB
One of Albion's best players these days and streets ahead of Adam Webster at the moment Photo: Eddie Keogh
6. Ferdi Kadioglu - LB
The £25m arrival from Fenerbache looks to be of the highest level. The early signs look very promising indeed. Photo: Bryn Lennon
7. Mats Wieffer - CM
The £25m arrival just nips in ahead of Jack Hinshelwood and Yasin Ayari for the midfield role alongside Baleba. But this spot is very much up for grabs. Photo: Paul Hazlewood
8. Carlos Baleba - CM
A fine start to the season and a special goal against Wolves in the Carabao Cup win on Tuesday. He's undroppable on current form. Photo: Bryn Lennon