Vítor Pereira press conference injury update on Morgan Gibbs-White, plus latest Nottingham Forest team news before Europa League clash with Aston Villa
Nottingham Forest travel to Villa Park on Thursday for the second leg of their Europa League semi-final, holding a narrow advantage from the first meeting.
Chris Wood’s penalty in the first leg has given Forest a 1-0 lead, leaving the tie finely balanced heading into the return fixture.
Vítor Pereira addressed the media on Wednesday as his side prepare for a crucial night, with several fitness concerns lingering over his squad.
Attention has centred on one key attacking player following an incident in their recent league win.
Morgan Gibbs-White fitness to be assessed late
Morgan Gibbs-White picked up a significant head injury during Monday’s 3-1 victory over Chelsea, requiring stitches after a collision with goalkeeper Robert Sánchez. The England international’s involvement remains uncertain, with a late decision expected.
“We’ll see. We’ll see tomorrow, if he’s able to play or not. It is not a question for me, it’s a decision between the player and medical department.
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“We will have a last meeting to decide. We have a plan with him and without him.”
Pereira also admitted there are several other concerns within the squad ahead of the trip to Birmingham.
Defender Zach Abbott is one who will be monitored after suffering a head injury in the Chelsea match, forcing him off before half-time.
Meanwhile, both Ola Aina and Murillo were absent from the squad on Monday and remain doubts heading into the second leg.
“There are a lot of doubts. But we cannot have doubts about our belief and what we want. But about the players, I have a lot,” he said.
Further up the pitch, Ibrahim Sangaré and Dan Ndoye are also racing to be fit, adding to the uncertainty surrounding Forest’s selection.
Despite the injury issues, Forest remain in a strong position in the tie. Pereira’s side know that even a draw would be enough to secure a place in the final, but their preparation has been far from straightforward with so many players needing late assessments.
