Nottingham Forest manager Nuno Espirito Santo has confirmed his side are managing a few fitness concerns ahead of Saturday’s clash with Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium.
Forest, currently fifth in the Premier League table and level on points with their opponents, are looking to build momentum after the international break.
Speaking at the pre-match press conference, Nuno hinted that some players may require late fitness tests, but Ola Aina is expected to feature despite concerns about his condition following international duty with Nigeria.
Aina left Nigeria’s camp early after their 1-1 draw with Benin Republic last Thursday, in line with an agreement made if qualification for the Africa Cup of Nations was secured.
While reports from Nigeria suggested the defender might have picked up a knock, he has been cleared to play.
Long-term absentees Danilo and Ibrahim Sangare remain unavailable as they recover from injuries.
Danilo continues his rehabilitation from a broken ankle, while Sangare is sidelined with a hamstring issue. Nuno confirmed both players are progressing but are not yet ready to return.
Winger Ramon Sosa, who represented Paraguay during the international break, will join the squad later than his teammates due to his commitments with his national side.
Nuno highlighted the benefits of the international break, explaining that it provided a valuable opportunity to help players recover. However, he maintained a cautious approach, saying, “Let’s wait and see if they improve before the game.”
The fitness of key players such as Aina could prove crucial as Nuno looks to maintain the Forest’s impressive start to the season.
