Billy Davies will face a tough task to pick up a side whose form has nosedived since the Boxing Day decision to axe Sean O'Driscoll whose City side were good value for three points that will put the pressure on their relegation rivals.
Returning hero Davies takes over a Reds team that is now just one point further away from the relegation zone than the play-offs.
His 'unfinished' business at the club begins on Monday with a post-mortem on another disappointing defeat. Supporters can only hope that O'Driscoll's revenge will draw a line under one of the most turbulent periods in the history of NFFC.
The Bristol boss was full of praise for his side afterwards, saying: "This is one of the most organised sides I've had in a long time.
"It's been a difficult week. We trained them at the stadium today. They've responded terrifically, they worked for each other."
Rob Kelly took caretaker charge of Forest for the game and told the official club website afterwards: "There is obviously something missing and I'm sure Billy Davies will be able to pinpoint what it is."