Nottingham Forest and West Ham United play a crucial match this afternoon at the City Ground. The Reds are two points above the relegation zone in 2024 and have not won in the Premier League. In their 3-2 loss to Newcastle United last weekend, they displayed both their offensive prowess and weaknesses on defence.
In recent weeks, head coach Nuno Espirito Santo’s options have been rather restricted due to a combination of injuries and unavailability. Willy Boly, Ola Aina, and Ibrahim Sangare are out of today’s match since they have just returned from the Africa Cup of Nations, and he still has a lot of players working their way back to full fitness.
Nuno now knows the players he will be working with for the second half of the season, though, after the Premier League roster for Forest was confirmed last week. Before the transfer window ended, Matz Sels, Gio Reyna, and Rodrigo Ribeiro signed contracts; the club also oversaw a number of exits as it reduced its player count.
When questioned lately about knowing his starting lineup, Nuno was hesitant to disclose it since, as he pointed out, managing the players’ absences at different times usually affects it. That is true, however in light of the Reds’ impressive January performance, we rank Forest’s best lineup when everyone is healthy and available below.
What is Forest’s strongest XI?
Matz Sels
The Reds are hoping that having Matz Sels arrive on deadline day will help them with their goalkeeping dilemma. The Belgian is currently without a doubt the best, but it’s still too early to say that.
Ola Aina
Picking the full-back positions is difficult. Gonzalo Montiel has not always been steady, but Neco Williams has performed well and consistently brings a lot of enthusiasm. Ola Aina, who can also play on the right, was a standout left-wing player early in the season.
Willy Boly
Forest must strengthen their defence. Since been given the opportunity, Andrew Omobamidele has performed well, but Willy Boly’s physical presence and experience could help a defence that is leaking points.
Murillo
Nuno faces the difficulty of stopping the Reds from giving up so many goals. Even though Murillo is still a young player and prone to errors, his poise under pressure and pass-picking skills are still highly valued.
Harry Toffolo
Harry Toffolo is renowned for his crossing prowess and has always been a dependable player in the Garibaldi. Aina at left back and Williams on the right could make sense, but for now, defensive consistency comes first.
Ibrahim Sangare
Ibrahim Sangare, who signed a club record, has not yet reached his peak performance for the Reds. That being said, after Ivory Coast’s AFCON triumph, he ought to be quite happy to return to the City Ground. Nuno is hoping that his performance in the Premier League can build on it.
Nicolas Dominguez
There are midfield choices for Forest, and it’s debatable whether or not particular individuals are better fit for a given match. Similarly, it may occasionally be necessary to alter the formation. However, Nicolas Dominguez can have a significant impact on games when he performs at his peak because he can find the back of the net.
Anthony Elanga
For the Reds, Anthony Elanga has proven to be a great addition. With his quickness, he can give defenders nightmares and is a constant threat. His fifth goal of the season came against Newcastle.
Morgan Gibbs-White
The importance of Morgan Gibbs-White to Forest cannot be understated. He is really important. Although Gio Reyna can play on the flanks and compete for the No. 10 slot, Gibbs-White is one of the first names on the team sheet when he is available.
Callum Hudson-Odoi
Reyna may eventually establish himself as a main squad member, but for the time being, the combination of Callum Hudson-Odoi, Elanga, and Gibbs-White is very promising. The latter played well last Saturday, and his impact will only increase with a little more conviction.
Taiwo Awoniyi
Over the coming months, a lot will be expected of Taiwo Awoniyi. When he plays, Forest appears to be a different squad. Although he needs more time to recover to full match fitness, the Nigerian’s fitness is even more crucial now that Chris Wood is sidelined.
