Nottingham Forest goalkeeper set clear 'challenge' ahead of Bristol City test

Goalkeeper Ethan Horvath has been challenged to put in another impressive performance when Nottingham Forest host Bristol City on Saturday.

The American stepped in for the suspended Brice Samba on Tuesday night and kept a clean-sheet as the Reds drew 0-0 at Preston North End.

It was his first taste of action since September, and only his fourth appearance for the club since he signed in the summer.

But with Samba still ruled out for the next two games, boss Steve Cooper says it is important Horvath builds on his midweek display.

“I hope he takes a lot from it,” said the Forest head coach.

“The challenge for him is to keep another clean-sheet and build on the good things he did the other day.

“He won’t be sitting there thinking, ‘I’ve had a good game, great’. He’ll be thinking, knowing the lad he is and how hard he works, that he’s got to play even better in the next game.

“But in terms of the Preston game, he did well for us. It was pleasing to see that.

“He’s had to be patient.

“I know it was under circumstances that he might not have thought, but it’s good he’s got the opportunity. He deserves it, and he made sure he was ready for it.

“But, it’s only one game. He’s got at least another two.

“Jordan Smith, as well, is training hard. Brice is playing another role at the moment, in terms of supporting these lads, and he’s doing that well.

“Getting ready for the next game is all those guys will be thinking about.”