Boss Chris Hughton believes Nottingham Forest will be boosted by the competition for places, now the transfer window has closed.
Having made it a priority to bolster his attacking options, Hughton added Glenn Murray, Filip Krovinovic and James Garner during January, as well as extending the loan spell of Anthony Knockarert.
And with players such as Jack Colback, Samba Sow, Ryan Yates and Harry Arter working their way back from injury, the manager is pleased with the strength in depth at his disposal as the Reds look to climb the table.
“I’m delighted with what we did,” he said, ahead of Saturday’s trip to face Wycombe Wanderers.
“Amongst what we did do, we also have to include Anthony Knockaert in that equation. Although he was with us for the first half of the season, it’s still an acquisition for the second half.
“I’m really delighted with the squad we now have.
“The likes of Jack Colback coming back after a long period out, and hopefully Yatesy back soon - those types of additions are equally as important as well.”
Hughton says having more options, through new signings and players making comebacks, can have an effect on his thinking on substitutions during games.
“Having a fit squad is about having a competitive squad,” he added.
“You might have a situation where things are going well and you’re not changing too much.
“It’s very difficult with the situation we have in our division with so many games; you are generally feeling that players are going to get games.
“I think maybe the biggest change is also about the substitutes you are able to make.
“Sometimes you can be a bit more cautious about subs coming on and the timing they come on; the better competition you have, it gives you more opportunities to make more substitutions earlier than what you would have done before.
“There’s real good competition, and I hope it stays that way.”
