Billy Davies believes Nottingham Forest are showing signs of being back to their best.

The Reds cast aside their recent away day disappointments - they had lost three successive games on the road - by beating Sheffield United at home in midweek.

Davies has today finalised his preparations for another City Ground date tomorrow, against Middlesbrough (kick-off 3pm).

And he revealed: "I think there were signs on Tuesday, particularly in the first half, when we looked more mobile and more like ourselves.

"It was nice to see the real Forest back with energy, pace, precision in our passing and confidence. It was good to get the three points.

Forest will head into tomorrow's game knowing that a ninth successive home league win would elevate them into second spot in the Championship table behind Newcastle.

They are currently two points adrift of West Brom, who do not play Bristol City at Ashton Gate until Sunday.

Davies added: "I've said before we can't get too carried away about the next game or two.

"We've got to look at the big picture which is the 14 remaining games.

"We've got to look at the points required for the play-offs, the points required for the top two and try and keep winning as often as we possibly can."

Middlesbrough were widely tipped to feature in the promotion reckoning following their relegation from the Premier League last season.

But after an inconsistent campaign so far Gordon Strachan's men are currently in ninth spot, albeit just three points adrift of the play-off places.

Davies said: "We will face a Middlesbrough side who made a host of signings in January, have changed their club around and introduced a new manager.

"And let's be honest they are a club that most people thought would be there or thereabouts - there's no doubt they have the potential."