Pearce was named England Under-21 coach in July 2007

England Under-21 coach Stuart Pearce says if Nottingham Forest finish one place above the drop zone it will be a successful season for his former club.

"It is important for them to stay in this league this year and consolidate - however they have to do that," he said.

Pearce said he was excited to be back at the City Ground as his side take on France on Tuesday.

"I've got a special relationship with the supporters - it's exciting for me to bring a team back here," he said.

"It's taken them a few years to get out of the league below... if they keep in possession of a Championship place at the end of the season, it will be a good year for the club," he said.

"I think that'll be successful and they can build again for next year."

The legendary Forest skipper has only been back to the City Ground in a professional capacity as a player with Manchester City shortly after he left the Reds.

The 46-year-old has guided the England Under-21s to next summer's European Championship in Sweden.

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