Sky Sports pundit David Prutton believes that Nottingham Forest have taken "control" of the play-off race in recent weeks and expects them to continue their good form against Birmingham City this weekend.
The Reds, who are hosting their opponents at the City Ground on Saturday for a 3pm kick-off, are firmly embroiled in one of the most closely contested play-off battles in recent years. Blues, on the other hand, are virtually safe from the drop at this stage of the season, but are nowhere near being in contention for promotion.
Steve Cooper's side are currently fifth in the Championship table on 64 points, with games in hand on many of their nearest rivals and haven't lost in the league since 30 January either; a 2-1 loss to Cardiff City away. They also have the fifth-best home record in the top four divisions in 2022, with eight wins, one draw and one defeat this calendar year.
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That represents a mighty challenge for Birmingham City, who will be hoping their opponents may be somewhat complacent heading into this tie. While Lee Bowyer's team find themselves in the lower half of the table, they have only lost one of their last five games, keeping three clean sheets in that time.
The high-flying Forest could have too much for the visitors, though. Prutton says they are "on the march" as the run-in to the campaign heats up at the top half of the standings and has predicted a win for his former side.
"Four wins on the bounce has seen them take control of their spot in the play-offs," the ex-Forest and Southampton midfielder told Sky Sports. "They have games in hand on all the sides around them too, it is some position to be in.
"Birmingham enjoyed a victory over rivals West Brom last Sunday. They do not have a huge amount else to play for this season, other than to try and build for next. Forest should capitalise."
Prutton predicts a 2-1 victory for the hosts.
