Nottingham Forest manager, Nuno Espírito Santo, has provided an update on the fitness of Super Eagles full-back Ola Aina, following his injury during the team's 2-1 victory over Manchester United at the City Ground on Tuesday. Aina appeared to suffer a calf issue in the first half of the match, requiring immediate medical attention on the pitch.
Despite his determination to continue playing, the 28-year-old right-back was unable to carry on and was substituted in the 36th minute of the game, with Spanish left-back Alex Moreno coming on in his place. After the match, Aina left the stadium on crutches, which raised further concerns about the severity of his injury and whether he would face a lengthy spell on the sidelines.
Speaking to Nottinghamshire Live about the injury, Espírito Santo admitted that only a scan would provide the clarity needed regarding Aina’s condition. The Forest manager expressed his concern, stating, "We have to assess. It is always a concern when a player gets injured by himself. He is going to have a scan, and we will see how it is. We’re not quite sure what it is, only the scan will say exactly."
Aina’s injury comes as a significant blow to Nottingham Forest, as the 28-year-old has been a vital part of the team’s defensive setup this season. He has made 30 appearances in the Premier League, contributing two goals and solidifying his place as an important figure in Forest’s backline. The club will be hoping for positive news from the upcoming scan to determine the extent of his injury and to assess how long he may be sidelined.
If Aina’s injury is as severe as feared, it could have a significant impact on the team's defensive strategies for the remainder of the season. Forest’s ambitions for a strong finish in the Premier League could be affected without his presence, and the club will be eager to learn more once the results of the scan are available.
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