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We always knew Leicester City v Forest would be the big one – Rob Tanner's view

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When the fixtures came out last summer, today's trip to face East Midlands rivals Nottingham Forest immediately grabbed Leicester City fans' attention.

The expectations were high and City fans spoke of clinching promotion in their rivals' own backyard.

Until the end of January, that still looked like a possibility, and even after a run of just two wins in 16 league games there could still be plenty of reasons for City fans to be celebrating on the banks of the River Trent this afternoon.

But it is not the scenario they were expecting.

The game was always going to be a huge one, and the fact that both sides are desperate for the win to keep any lingering hopes of reaching the play-offs alive will ensure a barnstorming encounter that is likely to live long in the memory.

But also, ultimately, the game could count for absolutely nothing.

City need to beat Forest at the City Ground, something they have not achieved in a league game since Alan Birchenall grabbed the winner 41 years ago.

Then they need Bolton, who are enjoying their best home form for 20 years, to slip up at home to Blackpool.

A draw at the Reebok Stadium, coupled with a City victory, would see Nigel Pearson's men grab sixth spot and a place in the play-offs.

It is as straightforward as that.

For Forest, it is the same scenario, but with an added dimension.

If they beat City but Bolton beat Blackpool, they can still make the play-offs – if Crystal Palace lose at home to Peterborough. If Posh get a point, then Forest can still pip Palace but they will need to overhaul the five-goal advantage Palace have on goal difference.

Now that would be the ultimate nightmare for City fans.

For City, if they do pull it off then they will take sixth spot with the lowest points total ever to qualify for the play-offs, just 68.

The two sides, who are both managed by men enjoying their second spells with the club, may be going into this game with contrasting form, but today's game will have a cup final feel because it is potentially winner takes all, if the Trotters slip up.

We always knew Leicester City v Forest would be the big one – Rob Tanner's view


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