CHERRIES boss Eddie Howe believes Nottingham Forest’s “interesting” season highlights the unpredictable nature of the Championship.

Forest, among the pre-season favourites for automatic promotion, lost just four of their opening 31 games and appeared on course to justify their odds.

However, a run of 12 league games without victory, during which Billy Davies was sacked as manager, has left them looking at the play-offs at best.

Previewing Forest’s visit to Dean Court, Howe said: “I think it is a great game for everybody connected with the club. Nottingham Forest have a huge history and tradition and it is really exciting game with everything that is at stake for both teams.

“They have had a very interesting season and I think it goes to show the twists and turns that can happen. They looked like they were nailed on to be in the top two and had a very strong start.

“Then, there was a managerial change and a loss of form but they come to us on the back of two wins and are back in the play-off picture.

“Gary Brazil (Forest’s caretaker-manager) made a few changes and brought in some younger guys for their win at Leeds on Monday. They did very well for him at a tough place to win.

"I don’t think it changes our preparation too much, we know we are going to be facing a strong and very motivated Forest team. We know we need to win and will do everything we can to try to do that.”

Tommy Elphick (back) and Harry Arter (thigh) could return for Cherries.