Billy Davies pledges to strengthen Forest squad

Billy Davies today pledged to beef up his Nottingham Forest squad in the January transfer window.

Giving his first press conference at the club, the new Forest boss said: "There are short, medium and long term goals. In the short term, we will look at the squad situation, the age group, and we know we have to beef up the squad in the short term.

"You don't need to be a mathematician to know what is required.

"It's still early. I've spoken to the players this morning and it's a blank sheet of paper for everyone. Everybody will have the opportunity to prove themselves.

"We will assess everybody. We cannot afford to rush too quickly, signing players for the sake of it."

Speaking about his 13 months out of the game, he said: "I've enjoyed the break, it has given me time to reflect and organise and have a think about what's taken place. But I am delighted to be back.

"There were one or two other offers before but I felt this was right and I went with my gut i nstinct. It feels right. It's a massive challenge and an exciting challenge."

Davies has managed both Rob Earnshaw and Kelvin Wilson at other clubs in the past.

"I've said to Rob and to Kelvin that what has taken place remains in the past. It's a different club, a different environment," he said.

"I know how football works and I've welcomed Rob with open arms.

"I've no intention of letting him go or anybody else. I will lay down markers and let everyone prove exactly what they are worth."

Davies said he will not be looking for players of a certain age in the January transfer window.

"It is not necessarily about experience," he said.

"I will be looking for good players, not ones of a certain age.

"I've got young players, I just need to give them support and guidance."

He also paid tribute to his predecessor, Colin Calderwood.

"I must say Colin Calderwood has done a fantastic job and so have his staff here in bringing players through.

"It's just unfortunate that he is another casualty of football and he should be very proud. And like myself at Derby, it was just time for a change."

Davies confirmed he will remain in the stands at Manchester City tomorrow and not interfere with team selection before taking official control on Monday.

He added: "The players should look forward to it and enjoy the challenge. These are the memories to treasure from the game - to go out there and enjoy themselves. It's a fantastic game of football to be involved in."

Club chief executive Mark Arthur said: "I think the most important thing was to get a manager who had tangible Championship experience and tangible success in the Championship.

"He was the first and only choice, Billy's name was top of our list."

He said any acquisitions during January would have to be right for the club.

"We have always made funds available and it is up to Billy who he wants to bring in. And while we have funds, we will not be stupid," he said.

"The acquisitions have to be right for the club and not a knee-jerk reaction."

The club also confirmed today that goal-keeping coach Barry Richardson has opted to leave Forest after rejecting an alternative role within the club.