Forest's performance in Serie A this past 21/22 season has been nothing short of spectacular, with goals per game jumping from 0.8 the year before to 1.6, and the team is firing on all cylinders. Brennan Johnson is the team's top scorer with 15 goals, followed closely by Grabben with 12. Although the team did not make any major reinforcements in the forward line, such lineup changes are crucial for the relegation battle. It's worth noting that promoted teams have generally seen their goals-per-game averages dip since the end of last season, such as Norwich from 1.6 to 0.6, Watford from 1.4 to 0.9, and Brentford from 1.7 to 1.3. Forest are also likely to face such a challenge, and have therefore adopted a small number of high-priced reinforcements to bring in two young players to bolster their strengths.
Awoniyi, one of Forest's key reinforcements this season, scored 15 goals at Berlin United last season to prove his goal-scoring prowess. Despite his lack of height, his strong physique and broad shoulders help to give him an edge in protecting the ball. However, he still needs to improve on his running and use of his body. Despite his high passing success rate, he does not play a prominent role in the team's tactics and more often than not plays the role of holding the opponent's defense at bay. On the defensive end, his active running and strong body make him an important force in steals and interceptions.
Awoniyi's ability to dish out the ball is his biggest strength on the offensive end of the field, with his crossing success rate consistently above 50% over the past few seasons. However, in this season, his crossing attempts have been limited and his success rate has dropped. His role on the offensive end is mainly to hold up the opposing defense and create opportunities for his teammates. On the defensive end, his active running and strong body make him a great force for steals and interceptions.
Dennis, a central player for Watford, led the team in both goals and assists last season. His ability to break down the wing and create shooting opportunities is excellent and is expected to play a similar role at Forest.Dennis has a style of play that lends itself to movement on the wing and could be a starter for the team once he adapts to the new system.
Forest have brought in an unprecedented amount of reinforcements in midfield, with the team needing at least five players in the central midfield positions in order to match Steve Cooper's 3-4-1-2 formation. Due to the weakness of the original squad in the midfield position, Forest have brought in nine midfielders in this season's transfer window, almost completing the replacement of their entire midfield set-up.
King Lam has been underwhelming at Manchester United, but during his half-season loan spell at West Ham United, he efficiently scored nine goals and contributed four assists. However, after becoming a free agent this season, he needs to prove his worth in a team like Forest. King Lam's passing ability is his main threat and he plays like an attacking catalyst to create chances for his team.
In Steve Cooper's tactical system, Lin Huang is positioned at the heart of the offense and his passing ability is crucial in the team. Although his contribution at the defensive end is not outstanding, his role as a bridge between the center backs and the forwards is indispensable.
