‘Forest are second in the form table’published at 15:15 BST
Nottingham Forest v Aston Villa (Thursday, 20:00 BST)
Nick Mashiter
BBC Sport football news reporter
Forest are one of the form teams in the Premier League.
They are second in the form table over the last six games, behind Brighton, having scored nine goals in their last two matches.
There is a growing belief they will secure their top-flight status for next season, sitting five points above the relegation zone with four games remaining.
Boss Vitor Pereira said earlier this month, when discussing the Premier League, that success can mean different things – suggesting that staying in the division would represent success after a season of struggle and four different managers.
Yet they could still end the campaign with a Europa League crown – something that was a target at the start – if they overcome Aston Villa in the semi-finals.
There is no fear from a Forest squad that has adapted well to Pereira’s methods since his arrival in February, with the former Wolves manager making an impact after replacing Sean Dyche.
Given their current form, some may see Forest as favourites for the home leg, and it will be an opportunity for them to take something into the return fixture at Villa Park next week.
