5 steps required for Nottingham Forest to save their season

Stick to one formation

Another significant downfall in Montanier’s side is the amount of formations he has experimented with in this campaign.

The 52-year old has already used five formations this season, which has likely led to confusion amongst the squad.

Systems such as 3-5-1-1, 4-3-3, 4-2-3-1, 3-4-3 and 4-1-4-1 have all been used this season, with 3-5-1-1 and 4-3-3 being the most common formats used by the side.

Recently, Montanier has been operating in a 4-2-3-1 set-up. Returning striker Britt Assombalonga (Pictured) seemed to struggle in this formation against Barnsley as he looked both isolated and lacking energy.

If Montanier is to get the best out of his side, he needs to focus on one system that he is prepared to stick with.

The clean sheet against Ipswich in November saw Forest play as a 3-5-1-1 with Ben Osborn adopting the ‘number 10’ role, so why change something if it works?

Therefore, if Montanier continues to gamble on his various set-ups, he may as well say ‘hello’ to League One football next season.