Stuart Pearce has urged his players to up their efforts in the wake of two convincing defeats over the Christmas holidays and has also admitted that his status with Forest fans has shielded both him and his squad from some of the pressure associated with a poor run of form.
The FA Cup may have proved something of a distraction in recent seasons when promotion has been the aim but to someone who gave every competition his all as a player it is unlikely that Pearce will take it or Rochdale lightly.
Promoted from League Two last season, Keith Hill's side made an excellent start to life at the higher level although they have struggled slightly of late with just one victory from eight matches.
Hill was unimpressed with his side's display in defeat against Fleetwood on Sunday but said afterwards: "We have had an unbelievable 18 months and the players don't need to be apologetic about the performance today."
Speaking about Forest, Hill said: “Sometimes it’s that sprinkling of confidence that just goes missing, whether it’s a Championship, League One or League Two side but they are a quality outfit, no question about that.”
Midfielder Matt Done and striker Ian Henderson, with 10 goals apiece in the league, have provided 'Dale's main goal threat this season with Done also netting a hat-trick in the FA Cup replay against Aldershot which earned his side a crack at the Reds.