Boss Steve Cooper says Nottingham Forest have plenty of options to cope with the absence of defender Joe Worrall without the need to “dive” into the transfer market for a replacement.
It comes as the Welshman insists there is “zero truth” to national reports which have linked the Reds with chasing Rangers centre-back Connor Goldson.
Nigel Doughty Academy graduate Worrall is facing six weeks on the sidelines after breaking three ribs in the 1-0 win at Millwall.
It is a big blow, given he has been a key figure and looked to be developing an understanding with Scott McKenna and Steve Cook as part of a back three.
But Forest have the flexibility to switch to a four-man defence - as they did during the game against Derby County on Saturday - and also have other players who can step into Worrall’s boots.
“You’ve got to be careful that you don’t dive into things like that,” said the head coach, when asked if injuries to any of his players had altered his transfer plans.
“I know Joe is going to be out for a little while, but it will come round quicker than not.
“It shows how important bringing in a centre-back, in Steve Cook, was.
“And we’ve got other players here as well. Toby (Figueiredo) has played a lot throughout the season. So we’ve got options.”
Midfielder Ryan Yates started as part of the back line against the Rams before Cooper changed formation - having played there earlier in the season as well.
The Reds also have Rodrigo Ely, who has yet to make his debut in the Garibaldi, and Loic Mbe Soh on the books.
Both are back in training, having been absent with thigh and muscle injuries, respectively.
“Rodrigo and Loic have been with the training group for a while now, and Loic played his first 90 minutes for the Under-23s last week,” Cooper said, ahead of Tuesday night’s clash with Barnsley.
“They are with the group, they are training, and everybody is in contention.”
