Steve McClaren's return to competitive English football ended in a goalless draw at the City Ground against Barnsley and although the Reds boss praised his side's 'workrate and attitude' the match also confirmed to him where new signings are needed.
"It was plain to see that we need more quality in the final third of the field," he told the official club website.
"The chairman is fully behind us. The backing is there but it is just about the process of getting the players in. The good thing is that we still have time to do that."
Opposite number Keith Hill called his side's display 'outstanding' and felt that Barnsley created enough chances to take three points away with them.
With a dispute between the Football League and the media meaning many jornalists were barred from the press box, the Daily Telegraph's top football writer Henry Winter joined the home supporters in the Brian Clough Upper to watch the game. His verdict was much the same as McClaren's and those sat around him.
'The game was not a classic. Jonathan Greening played some decent passes, Lewis McGugan darted about promisingly but McClaren urgently needs a centre-forward.'