Forest's Striker Fires a Brace as The Reds Round Off European Group Stage with Victory over Ferencvaros

Igor Jesus scored twice as the Premier League side rounded off the group stage of the European competition with a comfortable win against their Hungarian visitors at the home stadium.

Forest had already secured a place in the knockout round play-offs and entered this game with a small chance of making the league's elite, although they needed other matches to go their way.

Those results failed to materialize but this assured display will give the supporters confidence that their team can come through the two-legged play-off to reach the round of sixteen.

Kristoffer Zachariassen struck the upright with a headed effort inside the opening stages for the visitors – coached by former Tottenham striker Robbie Keane – but it was dominantly the home side from that point forward.

Forest opened the scoring in the early stages when Ryan Yates' cross was deflected in by the defender and doubled the lead shortly after – Jesus squeezing a shot in at the far post for his tenth strike of the campaign.

Jesus' eleventh goal arrived soon after the restart when he made a perfectly-timed run to break clear of the backline and then drive an effort past the shot-stopper.

That goal ended the visitors' hopes of mounting a recovery and instead the hosts added a fourth when the impressive McAtee converted a spot-kick after a infringement by the unfortunate Otvos inside the penalty area on the winger.

The Europa League qualifying round lottery takes place on Friday, 30 January (midday UK time), where Nottingham Forest could be drawn against either Fenerbahce or the Greek club.

"It's more than the result, there was that atmosphere about it. I want these players to do collectively well, the entire team," said manager Sean Dyche.

"That was another stride forward, but it is a positive step."

Forest Analysis: Jesus Catches Eye as New Signing Watches On

Jesus has been a revelation for Nottingham Forest in European competition this term with half of his eleven strikes scored in the Europa League.

This double also means he has got three goals in his previous two outings and the prospect of a challenge for his place in attack could be providing motivation.

Napoli striker Lorenzo Lucca was last week brought in temporarily and he was watching this match from the directors' box.

This development may well have been on the striker's thoughts as he was impressive against Ferencvaros, producing two superb finishes and overall being a constant threat to the opposition backline with his speed and movement.

Jesus was not alone in catching the eye, with McAtee producing his best performance in a Forest jersey since signing from the champions in the previous transfer window, while the Swiss international also impressed.

Such positive showings will give the club some fresh hope as they turn their attention to pulling further away from the Premier League relegation zone when they host their London rivals on the weekend.

"The minimum requirement is a reaction," continued the manager.

"I've never questioned their work ethic or their dedication or honesty. It is just about displaying your ability.

"James was excellent and Dan was super sharp. Jesus got another two and these are good signs."

Star Performer

Forest Key Performers

• Igor Jesus: Rating 9.10
• J. McAtee: Average Rating 8.8
• R. Yates: Average Rating 8.6
• I. Sangaré: Average Rating 8.0
• #31: Rating 7.9

Ferencváros Ratings

• #11: Average Rating 4.1
• Júlio Romão: Rating 4.12
• #16: Rating 4.09