Games at this stage of the competition have seen Premier League clubs make a host of changes and the Spaniard is keen to see some of his fringe players in action against the Reds.
"You've got a few players that have been working really well in pre-season and they've no reward yet and I think it's important that everyone is ready." he said.
"It's an opportunity for some other players to show what they can do and show that they can have a massive say this season."
Wigan's rapid rise over the past decade or so is reflected in the fact that this is only their 5th ever meeting with Forest. The full head-to-record can be seen by clicking below.
http://www.nottinghamforest-mad.co.uk/head_to_head/next/vs/match/index.shtml