Dean's dash to Heathrow
Dean Furman already has a taxi booked for Saturday night for a dash from Nottingham to Heathrow Airport.Latics' captain (pictured) needs to catch the 9pm flight to Cape Town to join up with South Africa as they prepare for the African Cup of Nations.
Furman says it will be a case of having a quick shower after Latics' FA Cup with Budweiser, third-round tie at the City Ground and leaving immediately.
South Africa had requested Furman be allowed to miss the match to report earlier than the 14-day release FIFA stipulate for major tournaments, but Latics insisted he plays at Forest given the importance of the game.
Furman added he can appreciate why clubs at loathe to losing players.
He said: "It is an important time for clubs who pay the wages and it hurts them to have players missing at a key time in the season.
"There have been high-profile cases none more so than Yaya Toure as Manchester City maintained they nearly lost the Premier League title when he took part in the tournament last season.
"It is difficult to leave here for one month in any situation whether we are top or bottom of the table.
"When your country comes calling, though, you cannot turn them down.
"It is such an honour to be called up for a major tournament on home soil and it is something I was unable to say no to.
"I am honoured and delighted to be involved."
Furman added he won't lose his focus which is firmly on the cup tie at the City Ground appreciating what it means to Latics.
And the memories of last season's third-round tie at Liverpool remain vivid.
He also believes a good cup run could be a catalyst for improving their fortunes in npower League One.
Furman continued: "Last season I remember fans queuing in the cold for hours for tickets for the Liverpool game and the game gave everyone, players and fans alike, a major lift.
"The cup tie provides a respite from the league. Our form has not been good and we will be underdogs. There will be no pressure given Forest are in the Championship.
"We will be able to play free-flowing football and with freedom."
Furman believes Latics have everything to gain and nothing to lose as they bid to cause an upset.