NOTTINGHAM Forest must continue to expect the unexpected in the Championship.
First team coach Brian Eastick warns that the Reds must be 100 per cent prepared for every game they face this season, whether it be a side at the top of the table or one struggling at the wrong end.
Millwall, who have battled relegation in recent years, had made a bright start under Ian Holloway, prior to tough away defeats at Ipswich and Reading.
But Eastick (pictured) says that, regardless of the opposition, every game will be a challenge in the second tier.
"We keep saying about this league... that it is unpredictable," he said.
"Who would have expected Wolves not to win against Blackpool last weekend? You just can't predict results.
"The bottom side in this division are capable of winning matches, which is why you have to be on the money in your approach to the game. If you dip below 100 per cent you will have a problem against any side in this division."
As well as requiring the right mentality, Eastick feels a successful Championship club will need depth in their ranks.
"It is unrelenting, with the games coming thick and fast, so you will pick up injuries, you will pick up yellow cards – it is a tough division to get out of," he said.
"The amount of time you spend coaching players is limited. But we have a good squad, we are in a decent place – let's make sure that continues.
"It is inevitable that you will pick up injuries as you go through the season, that it is why you look to have depth in the squad."
Forest have been struck by injury problems, with Chris Cohen and Andy Reid currently sidelined.
But, while Eastick has sympathy for Cohen, he says his misfortune has to be an opportunity for others to shine.
"One or two players have come back from injury and want to show the manager what they can do – this could be their opportunity," he said. "There are people who have been on the bench who are hungry to come in and I am sure Stuart will rotate the squad, to some extent, with so many games coming up.
"Competition for places is imperative."
Two players who have impressed in the absence of Cohen and fellow injury victim Andy Reid are Robert Tesche and Ben Osborn.
"We know Ben well, he is a young player who is improving all the time. He is an energetic player. Robert has done very well in training and was very quick to win the respect of the other players," said Eastick.
"He is very good in possession and rarely gives the ball away.
"Michael Mancienne knew him very well and Stuart also did his homework on him. He has come in and done very well. He copes very well with the tempo of English football."
