Clingan completed his move from Wolves earlier this week and goes straight into the Forest side for tonight's televised clash with fellow play-off chasers Barnsley.
The midfielder, who has spent much of the season on loan with Chesterfield, said: "I am looking forward to playing in front of 20,000 people.
"That was a big lure for me. It is a little daunting, but that is what you play football for.
"You can say that there is extra pressure with the TV cameras there, but again, this is the kind of thing you should be looking forward to as a player.
"This is the kind of game you want to be involved in.
"I hope I do get the chance to play, because I want to get started."