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The Brazilian attacker scored twice as the Premier League side concluded the league phase of the Europa League with a convincing win against Ferencvaros at the home stadium.

The hosts had previously guaranteed a place in the next qualifying round and entered this game with a small chance of making the top eight, although they required other matches to fall in their favor.

Those results failed to materialize but this assured performance will give Forest fans confidence that their side can come through the two-legged play-off to reach the last 16.

A Ferencvaros midfielder struck the post with a header inside the first 10 minutes for the away team – who are managed by ex-Premier League forward Robbie Keane – but it was all Forest from then on.

They broke the deadlock in the 17th minute when a delivery from midfield was turned into his own net by Bence Otvos and doubled the lead four minutes later – Jesus firing an effort in at the far post for his 10th goal of the campaign.

Jesus' eleventh goal came early in the second half when he timed a run perfectly to break clear of the defence and then place a shot past the shot-stopper.

That goal ended Ferencvaros' aspirations of mounting a recovery and instead the hosts added a fourth when the impressive McAtee scored from a spot-kick after a infringement by the hapless Otvos inside the penalty area on the winger.

Europe's secondary club competition knockout phase play-off draw is scheduled on Friday, 30 January (midday UK time), where Nottingham Forest might face either Fenerbahce or Panathinaikos.

"It is not just the result, there was that feel about it. I want these players to do collectively well, the whole squad," said Forest boss Sean Dyche.

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

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Jesus has been a revelation for Forest in Europe this season with six of his eleven strikes scored in the tournament.

His brace also means he has got three goals in his previous two outings and the threat of competition for his position in attack could be providing motivation.

Italian forward Lorenzo Lucca was recently brought in temporarily and he was observing this match from the directors' box.

That may well have been on Jesus' thoughts as he was impressive against Ferencvaros, delivering two excellent goals and generally being a constant threat to the opposition backline with his pace and runs.

The forward was not the only one in catching the eye, with James McAtee producing his best performance in a Forest jersey since signing from Manchester City last summer, while the Swiss international also impressed.

Such positive showings will give the club some renewed optimism as they switch focus to pulling further away from the Premier League relegation zone when they host their London rivals on the weekend.

"The minimum requirement is a response," added Dyche.

"I've never questioned their work ethic or their loyalty or integrity. It is just go and show your ability.

"McAtee was very good and Dan Ndoye was incredibly lively. Jesus got another couple and these are good signs."

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