The next seven fixtures for Torquay United could go a long way to determining the success of the fight against relegation to Vanarama National League South.
In their next eight fixtures, which includes home matches against fellow strugglers FC Halifax Town, Welling United, Altrincham and Kidderminster Harriers - as well as a trip to Boreham Wood, are all crucial in the context of United's survival prospects.
Winning these games will provide a massive boost in helping Torquay to beat the drop and clawing back the eight points they currently lie adrift from safety.
Their clash with the Shaymen on February 16th looks set to be a particularly interesting encounter as it will see Nicholson come up against Jim Harvey, who was his manager at Forest Green Rovers during the 2006-07 season before he joined the Gulls as a player.
Then on March 5th, Kidderminster Harriers visit the Launa Windows Stadium in a match that will see Nicholson come up against another one of his former clubs, as well as midfielder Aman Verma - currently on loan with the Gulls from the Harriers - and recent signing Nathan Blissett.
There is also the possibility that United's meeting with Altrincham on February 27th may need to be re-arranged should the Gulls overcome Macclesfield Town in the third round of the FA Trophy.
Next up for United is a trip to Tranmere Rovers, who are managed by Gary Brabin who was the manager of Cambridge United when the Gulls beat them in the 2009 Conference Play-off final at Wembley - a game in which Nicholson appeared in.
By then, Nicholson may well have made further additions to his squad as the January transfer window is due to have closed by this time next week. Loan signings and the signing of unattached players will of course still be permitted up until the last week in March.
