Nottingham Forest are hopeful that right-back Ola Aina will be fit for their Premier League clash against Arsenal on Saturday. Aina, who has been a standout performer for Forest this season, returned early from international duty with Nigeria to undergo treatment in the UK.
A near ever-present in Nuno Espírito Santo’s starting lineup, Aina has played a crucial role in Forest’s strong start to the campaign, with the team currently sitting fifth in the table. The former Chelsea defender featured for the full 90 minutes in Forest’s 3-1 defeat to Liverpool before the international break and played 83 minutes in Nigeria’s 1-1 draw with Benin last Thursday in an Africa Cup of Nations qualifier.
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After being substituted late in the match against Benin and receiving treatment for a potential injury, Aina was released from international duty with the approval of Nigeria’s interim coach, Austin Eguavoen. Speaking to Nigerian outlet The Athletic NG, Eguavoen emphasised the importance of maintaining good relations with club sides.
Ola Aina (Image credit: Getty Images)“Before our match against Benin, I spoke with an official from Nottingham Forest and later received a message from Nuno, the manager, requesting Ola Aina’s release for their game against Arsenal,” Eguavoen said. “I agreed, given that we had alternative players and had already secured AFCON qualification.”
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The Nigeria Football Federation confirmed Aina’s early departure in an official statement, noting that Forest “fervently requested” his return to prepare for the pivotal Premier League fixture.
Aina’s substitution during Nigeria’s match was reportedly due to fatigue rather than a significant injury. He will be assessed throughout the week to determine his availability for the trip to North London.
Forest’s visit to Arsenal is set for a 3pm kickoff on Saturday, with Nuno Espírito Santo eager to have his first-choice right-back available as his side looks to continue their impressive form against one of the league’s top teams.
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