Chelsea have lost eight of their last twelve matches whilst Forest are unbeaten in nine consecutive matches as they enter the game on the back of their European clash with Aston Villa on Thursday night.
The Blues could find themselves in the bottom half of the Premier League table come kick off depending on results elsewhere in what is a worry for supporters.
James is a real leader in the Chelsea side
McFarlane picked up a 1-0 victory over Leeds United in the FA Cup semi-finals last week and will hope to build on that performance this week. He first opened up on the slow return of Reece James.
“Reece is back in training and Levi, both looking good. A little way to the game so we'll see how they do but both are looking promising. We're taking it day by day. Levi has had a long injury, Reece had a really good run and was then injured again so we don't want to push too much.
“Reece has been brilliant since the day I stepped up in January. He's been injured so it's a different role. Even though he's young, he's experienced and won major tournaments. He's a massive part of the leadership group and he's been a massive help to me and the staff.”
McFarlane believes Chelsea can reach the Champions League
After taking over from Liam Rosenior who was sacked earlier this month, McFarlane will expect to see a reaction from his Chelsea side who are far from the Champions League spots in 8th. He still believes his side can join Europe's elite however as he revealed the mood surrounding the side.
"It's always difficult when you're not performing and not getting the results. It's amazing how a win can change the feel and atmosphere of the group.
"We need the fans to bring a positive energy and get behind the team. There's a lot to play for. We have to win our games and not think about anything else.
"I definitely am enjoying it. You can never be prepared for the intensity and the demand but I'm enjoying the challenge and the pressure."
Rosenior's message to McFarlane
Lastly, McFarlane commented on Rosenior and the small chat they had before he left the side who he failed to turn around after taking over from Enzo Maresca.
"I had a chat with Liam the day that he left, I would like to keep that private but it was a good conversation. Liam will go on to have a top career in coaching but sometimes it doesn't work out at clubs."