Nottingham Forest haven't had the fairytale start to their Premier League return that supporters would have hoped for, however, Steve Cooper still has plenty of time and opportunities to turn the season around.

In their first 15 outings in the top flight, it's fair to share the Tricky Trees have struggled to make their presence known and have spent the vast majority of their time in the relegation zone, although in their most recent fixtures have started to show glimpses of good form.

Over their last five fixtures before the World Cup break, Forest picked up eight points out of a possible 15 with only one defeat that has now left them just one point shy of climbing out of the relegation zone.

As a result, Cooper will be hoping that when his team return to action at Old Trafford against Manchester United on the 27th December they will be able to continue to pick up crucial points in their pursuit to retain their Premier League status.

The Forest boss will also have the chance shortly after the league resumes to strengthen his team when the January transfer window reopens in the new year, and it must not be an opportunity missed.

One player who was linked with a move to Trentside in the summer was Yunus Musah, a talented young midfielder who will be representing the USMNT in Qatar over the coming weeks ahead.

Over 11 league appearances for Valencia this season, the 19-year-old ace - who was dubbed a "quality talent" by former American defender Alexi Lalas - has registered two assists and created three big chances, as well as averaging 1.9 tackles, 41.5 touches and winning 4.5 duels per game.

With those statistics in mind, it is easy to see why he could be a saviour in their season with the central player clearly acting as a big upgrade on those already at the City Ground.

Indeed, he has made more tackles per match than anyone in the Forest midfield, and only Morgan Gibbs-White is level with the American for assists.

Supporters will be able to catch a glimpse of €20m-valued (£17.4m) former Arsenal wonderkid at the World Cup in the coming weeks, with the youngster picking up 19 caps for the United States so far.

Musah was given a glowing reference when he played for his national team last year from the manager Gregg Berhalter:

"I thought he did a very good job. I agree with what you're saying: he was a connector. Very, very simple but effective game tonight. He closed down space well.

"He just made everything look easy, and I think he had a very, very strong performance."

With that being said, the signing of a young player brimming with talent like Musah could make a difference to Nottingham Forest which ultimately turns their fortunes around.