Paul Anderson insists he is looking forward to Nottingham Forest's return to match action.

The Reds will launch their campaign of pre-season matches on Saturday against Portuguese top-flight top flight opposition S.C. Olhanense.

Manager Billy Davies is expected to give most of the 22 players he has taken to Portugal a run-out in the game.

And Anderson, who scored the match-winner against Sporting Lisbon at the same stage of pre-season last year, is ready to start all over again.

Olhanense beat League One Peterborough 2-0 last weekend and Anderson told Forest Player:

"From what we've been told they are very composed on the ball, they seem a good team who are hard-working.

"It's not going to be easy but it will be a good run-around for us.

"If they keep the ball well it's obviously good practice for us for the season ahead."

A large contingent of Forest fans are expected to make the trip to Portugal for the pre-season opener and Anderson revealed: "The players do appreciate the efforts supporters go to.

"It's helpful to know fans are with you, whether it's a friendly or competitive game.

"We're grateful to them. It's our first game and we may be a little bit rusty so hopefully they will give us a little leeway but we'll try our hardest."

The Forest squad are spending their first full day at their Portuguese training base, Barrington's sports complex in the picturesque Algarve.

They will train twice a day in the run-up to Saturday's game and Anderson added: "It's lovely weather, quite hot for training.

"It's nice to be working in different surroundings. We came here last year and enjoyed it - it's a lot of hard work but it's nice to have a bit of sun on our backs while we get ready for a tough season."

Saturday's game against S.C. Olhanense takes place at the Estádio José Arcanjo (kick-off 9pm).