Bolton’s back line had come in for some criticism over the last few weeks, but the Whites still boast the third-best defensive record in the division with seven games remaining.
Calls for a change in formation or defensive personnel look set to be resisted for the time being by Steven Schumacher, who is preparing his side to face a potentially formidable attack at Plymouth this weekend.
Canadian striker Bim Pepple has scored 13 times in his last 19 outings, and Tom Cleverley’s side are also expected to welcome back from injury Swiss front man Laurent Tolaj, who has scored 18 times this season.
Forino believes the various defensive combinations can continue to serve Wanderers well in a run of fixtures that will ultimately decide their play-off fate.
“We have got three or four different set-ups that I think work,” he told The Bolton News.
“Of the centre-halves there’s me, Toally, Jonno, all good players for this division in my humble opinion and we have developed a good understanding and connection with each other, whichever two are playing together in the middle, or whether it’s a three.
“I think the unit has been well-oiled and though I am not a massive fan of stats, they are there to back it up this season.”
Lately, Schumacher has employed Johnston as a left-back to cater for the more attack-minded Jordi Osei-Tutu pushing down the right, creating a back three out of possession.
But with Max Conway fit again, Bolton have options – all of which can cope with the pressure of the final seven games, says Forino.
“It’s a bit of a fluid system but I think that’s great,” he said. “Being able to call on multiple different options, ways of building and breaking down the opposition’s press to carry through the thirds is really important.
“Whoever comes in or out, add Cyrus (Christie) to that mix as well, in that back line. I think we're all really understanding of our roles, whichever three or four or five are picked.”
Christie’s influence has also gone unseen, says Forino, who credits the experienced Irishman with offering plenty of sage advice.
“He’s a great guy, on or off the pitch,” he said. “He is good to chat to, speak to about all sorts of things.
“I often go to him and seek advice as well, and words of wisdom, so to speak, about things around the training ground. Of course, his career speaks for itself. He's played at the very top and you can see why.
“He's one of the last to leave every day. He's doing bits on his day off to keep himself in shape. I wouldn't be able to tell you the full list, but he really looks after himself.
“It's no surprise to me he's had the career he's had because he is a great professional.”