Nottingham Forest could be without Ola Aina for one of their biggest games of the season after head coach Vítor Pereira admitted the defender remains a major doubt ahead of Thursday’s UEFA Europa League semi-final second leg against Aston Villa.
Aina picked up an injury during the first leg at the City Ground last week, forcing him off in a game where Forest battled hard to secure a narrow 1-0 advantage. The Nigerian international was subsequently absent from Monday night’s impressive 3-1 Premier League victory over Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, raising fresh concerns over his fitness.
Speaking ahead of the decisive encounter at Villa Park, Pereira refused to give a definite answer on the availability of several key players, including Aina.
“We have a lot of doubts with players but we cannot have doubts around the spirit and what we want and our belief,” Pereira told the club’s official website.
“We will have a meeting to the army and what soldiers we have to go into battle.”
While the Portuguese tactician attempted to project confidence, Forest supporters will undoubtedly be worried about the possible absence of one of their most consistent performers this season.
Aina has been a vital figure for the Tricky Trees throughout the campaign, bringing balance, pace, and defensive stability to the side. Beyond his defensive qualities, the 29-year-old has also delivered important contributions going forward, making him one of Forest’s standout players in both domestic and European competitions.
Consequently, his potential absence against an attacking Aston Villa side could prove significant.
Still, Forest travel to Villa Park with belief and, more importantly, a slender 1-0 lead thanks to Chris Wood’s composed penalty in the first leg. However, with Villa expected to come out aggressively in front of their home fans, Pereira will be hoping Aina can recover in time for what promises to be an intense night under the lights.
For now, Forest remain in wait-and-see mode.
And with a place in the Europa League final hanging in the balance, every fitness decision could define their season.
