Both sides are in need of points at Portman Road after sluggish starts to the season.
Since a rollercoaster ride in the Premier League at the start of the century, Ipswich have become a permanent fixture in the second tier. This is their 15th consecutive season in the Championship, and their form to date suggests it will be where they remain for the foreseeable future.
Ipswich Town manager Mick McCarthy
Having narrowly missed out on the play-offs last season, Mick McCarthy’s side are currently in mid-table having won five and lost five of their opening 16 games.
Right now Nottingham Forest would settle for mid-table. A dismal run of just one win from 11 league games has left the East Midlands outfit looking nervously over their shoulders; they could begin this match in the bottom three if Wigan and Cardiff win in their respective 3pm kick-offs.
The Key Battle – Christophe Berra vs Britt Assombalonga
Having failed to keep England at bay as part of the Scotland back four at Wembley, Berra returns to domestic duties this weekend. He faces a stern test against Assombalonga, who has four goals in seven appearances this season.
Nottingham Forest’s Britt Assombalonga celebrates at full time
Last Meeting:
Ipswich came out on top in their last match against Forest, with a Ben Pringle goal enough to separate the sides in March’s meeting at Portman Road.
Forest have the historical edge with 34 wins to Ipswich’s 21, but they haven’t beaten the Tractor Boys in any of the last six encounters between the two.
Ipswich Town’s David McGoldrick (C) celebrates scoring their second goal from the penalty spot with Freddie Sears
Recent league form – most recent last:
Ipswich – LDWLDW
Nottingham Forest – LWLLLD
Who’s the ref?
Peter Bankes will be in charge in Suffolk.
Bankes’ season so far has been eventful, with 65 yellow cards and seven reds shown in his 15 games.
What time is kick off?
The match begins at 5.30pm.
Nottingham Forest’s Henri Lansbury celebrates
Where can I watch it?
Ipswich v Nottingham Forest is live on Sky Sports 1, with coverage starting at 5.15pm.
Odds
Ipswich – 11/10
Draw – 23/10
Nottingham Forest – 13/5
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
