Nottingham Forest boss Colin Calderwood believes the opening-day clash with Reading will represent a stern challenge for his players.The Royals travel to the City Ground on August 9 as Steve Coppell's men bid to bounce back to the Premier League at the first time of asking.

Forest also play host to Morecambe in the Carling Cup and Watford in the Championship in August and Calderwood is relishing the prospect of a hectic start to the new season.

"Playing Reading on the opening day is one of the toughest tests we could have got and it will be a real examination of where we are as a team," said Calderwood.

"It's important we make a strong start in terms of results and the fact that three of our first four games are at home is a definite advantage.

"If we can get off to a good start it would only add to the positive feeling that has surrounded the club since the final day of last season."

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