Ola Aina reclaims his Europa League spot as Forest axe Zinchenko for final league-phase push

Nottingham Forest have made a significant change to their Europa League squad by restoring Ola Aina and removing Oleksandr Zinchenko ahead of the final league-phase fixtures.

The decision follows Aina’s recovery from a hamstring injury that had sidelined him since September and temporarily forced Forest into reshaping their European list.

Aina was initially named in the squad at the start of the competition before suffering the injury while on international duty with Nigeria.

With the full-back facing a lengthy spell on the sidelines, Forest took advantage of UEFA regulations that allow an injured outfield player to be replaced.

That opening enabled Zinchenko, who had initially been left out of the European squad, to step in as cover earlier in the campaign.

Aina has reclaimed his place after starting recent Premier League matches against Aston Villa and West Ham United.

Forest are permitted to make this switch before the end of the league phase, but no further changes will be allowed until that stage of the competition is completed.

The timing is important, with Forest preparing to travel to Braga next Thursday before hosting Ferencvaros at the City Ground on January 29.

They currently sit 11th in the 36-team Europa League table, two points outside the top eight positions that guarantee automatic qualification to the next round.

Braga occupy seventh place, while Ferencvaros are sixth, underlining the scale of the challenge still facing Forest.

Aina’s return is a welcome boost for manager Sean Dyche, given the improved security at the back that his presence offers.

The Nigerian international provides athleticism and balance down the flank and has quickly re-established himself since returning to action.

Zinchenko’s omission reflects his limited impact during his loan spell from Arsenal and his reduced role in recent weeks.

The versatile defender, who has often been deployed at left-back, has started only four Premier League games this season.

He was also one of three players withdrawn at half-time during Forest’s FA Cup defeat to Wrexham, a decision that highlighted his struggles for form.

Forest could consider cutting Zinchenko’s loan short if his situation does not improve.