WHEN Ron Atkinson and Andy Gray look on almost impassively from the dug-out, it says everything about the importance of the occasion.

Both gentlemen are noted for their touchline gesticulations, but they were clearly unmoved by Villa's failure to extend an unbeaten run to eight matches.

Compared with the more pressing matter of challenging for First Division honours, elimination from the Zenith Data Systems Cup was of little consequence.

It merely removed a potential interference with Villa's rapidly developing League campaign, although the manner of defeat surely raised a few doubts about their ability to sustain a serious challenge at the top of the table.

Villa's reshuffled outfit were nearly always second best to a Forest side who have just re-discovered their best form, with the outcome rarely in doubt once Stuart Pearce had delivered one of his free-kick specials on 33 minutes.

But while Atkinson barely showed any flicker of emotion when the unmarked lan Woan sealed Villa's fate in the 54th minute, he will have been disappointed on several counts.

The long-awaited strike combination of Dalian Atkinson and lan Olney, for example, did nothing to suggest it will be productive, with Olney eventually withdrawn.

Polish full-back Darius Kubicki never got to grips with Forest's incisive raids down the left flank, while there was once again ample evidence for Atkinson's need to strengthen his midfield.

In fairness, though, this was hardly a match in which to pass judgement.

What Villa desperately needed was the sort of control and composure which old heads Paul McGrath and Cyrille Regis would have provided. The duo, however, were rested in readiness for Sunday's clash against leaders Leeds.

That will be the time to make a true assessment of Villa's capabilities.