Ange Postecoglou has eased concerns over Nikola Milenkovic after the defender was withdrawn late in Nottingham Forest’s 2-2 draw at Real Betis.
The Serbian centre-back was substituted in the 89th minute, sparking fears of a possible injury. But his manager confirmed it was only fatigue.
Speaking to TNT Sports, Postecoglou said: “It was just cramp with big Nikola.” The defender is not expected to miss upcoming fixtures.
Postecoglou is still waiting for his first win
Postecoglou is still waiting for his first win as Forest manager, although he believes his team are heading in the right direction.
“I guess the challenge now is to make sure the players do not drop their heads at all because we are not getting the victories,” he said.
“I am really disappointed tonight they did not get the rewards for the good play, because that fuels it even more. They feel even better about the way things are going.
“But in terms of our progress, they are tough conditions out there. People do not realise – the humidity, the pitch, just the environment makes it really difficult.”
Postecoglou praised his players’ commitment to his style, highlighting several passages of play as ‘beautiful’ and a sign of the team’s development.
“I just thought some of the football we played was outstanding, and this group of players have been really receptive to what we are trying to do,” he added.
The manager admitted his side needs more cutting edge in front of goal but remains confident results will improve if performances stay consistent.
“We are in the results business and ultimately we need to convert our good play into victories now, but I think that will come if we keep playing like that,” he said.
Forest, who are currently 15th in the Premier League, will now turn their attention to facing newly promoted Sunderland this weekend.
