Nottingham Forest host Preston North End this weekend with the prospect of their two favoured centre-backs being out. 

Aitor Karanka looks to have preferred Michael Dawson and Tobias Figueiredo for large parts of the season so far, however, the former injured himself against Ipswich at the weekend, while the latter is still serving his ban for the red card he received against Aston Villa.

In all likelihood, the Spaniard will probably field Michael Hefele for the visit from 17th place Preston, with Danny Fox being the man to partner him. However, despite such a large squad, The Reds are starting to look slightly thin on the ground when it comes to centre-backs.

It wasn't more than a month ago that Nottingham Forest were desperately being linked with strikers to replace the under-fire Lewis Grabban. However, since then, the 30-year-old has been in sensational form, as he has gone on to top the scoring charts in the Championship. That concern has now shifted towards their defence.

While they may still have the personnel to cover for injuries and suspensions, a question remains as to whether they have the quality to cope. Now in fifth place in the Championship, if Nottingham Forest want to mount a serious challenge at promotion, they need to address their defence. It has already been rumoured that Karanka wants to dispense of the players that are not performing at the City Ground, and given the fact that the club have already made 17 signings this season, it would be no surprise if The Reds' defence looks very different come February.