Midfielder Kris Commons could be in line for his first senior appearance of the season when Nottingham Forest take on Tranmere at Prenton Park.

Commons underlined his recovery from ankle and knee injuries by featuring in a midweek reserve game and is expected to be part of the travelling party.

But a hamstring problem looks likely to keep John Curtis on the sidelines and a thigh injury has ruled out Danny Cullip.

The game will come too early for midfielder Ross Gardner who is short of full fitness thanks to a thigh problem and Nathan Tyson is not expected back from medial knee ligament trouble for another two months at least.

Tranmere manager Ronnie Moore has a host of injury worries to contend with.

Defender Shane Sherriff (hamstring), midfielder Paul McLaren (heel) and strikers Chris Greenacre (calf) and Calvin Zola (hamstring) are all doubts, with McLaren unlikely to feature.

Midfielders Jason McAteer (cartilage) and Danny Harrison (foot) are both out and despite winger Kevin Ellison (eye) available after seeing a specialist, Moore's small squad is stretched to the limit.

"You go with whatever hand you're dealt and it's a chance for some of the younger lads," Moore said.

"Chris Greenacre's our most natural goalscorer but if he's out, Calvin could offer something different. Young Steve Davies came on last week and did well and we've also had Carl Tremarco come in for Sherriff and do well."