New manager Dougie Freedman is taking things one game at a time but he will know that the visit of the second-bottom Latics represents a perfect opportunity for the Reds to build some momentum and make the final months of the season about more than looking down nervously at the relegation scrap.
"We can improve," said the Scot after the exciting 3-2 victory at Brighton, "But I know the group of players that I have got and we will work on things.
"I'm not a magician but I've got a lot of experience at this level. It's great for a coach to work with a bunch of players and that will build confidence."
Wigan's weekend defeat against Bournemouth left them seven points adrift of safety and with only Blackpool below them in the Championship table.
Although Freedman is looking no further than Wednesday night, Forest travel to Blackpool next Saturday.