Nottingham Forest news: European challenge shows long-term progress under Nuno

Saturday’s win at Manchester United – the first for 30 years – shows the growth at Nottingham Forest.

Of course, United are still in disarray despite the recent appointment of Ruben Amorim as manager but that should still not take away Forest’s credit.

It proves the 1-0 win at Liverpool in September will not be a one-off and that there is tangible long-term progress within the squad under Nuno Espritio Santo.

Next, Aston Villa visit the City Ground on Saturday with Unai Emery’s side sixth and level on points with Forest.

If there is an opportunity to get into Europe this season then beating those in direct competition is key. Villa, despite Tuesday’s 3-2 Champions League win at RB Leipzig, have not been their consistent best this season and can be exposed,

After that is a trip to home specialists Brentford and the Boxing Day trip to Tottenham meaning fifth-placed Forest could put some real distance between themselves and the chasing pack.

Any fears of relegation are long gone, attention turns to a consistent European challenge and a smart January transfer window would push Forest further into contention.

Full commentary of Nottingham Forest v Aston Villa on BBC Radio 5 Live from 17:30 GMT on BBC Sounds