All eyes will be on Nuno Espirito Santo’s team selection when Nottingham Forest face Crystal Palace on Saturday.
The Portuguese has faced some criticism in recent weeks, with questions raised over his starting lineups and substitute strategy. He will understand that his decisions this weekend will have a significant impact.
So far this year, the Reds have won only one Premier League game. It is critical that they correct it as they seek to maintain their top-flight status.
A four-point deduction for violating financial regulations has landed them in the relegation zone. The club is appealing the sentence, but Forest must also do their part on the pitch.
Nuno’s options have been limited at times due to injuries, and it is unclear how long forward Taiwo Awoniyi will be out. Chris Wood is expected to be okay for the City Ground match after being forced off with an injury in the 1-1 draw at Luton Town, but the Reds will be concerned about Willy Boly’s fitness after he appeared to develop a muscle problem while on international duty.
Nuno has some significant decisions to make over who starts at the City Ground. Here’s how we think Forest will line up against Palace.
Matz Sels
Matz Sels, the Reds goalkeeper, made some impressive saves for Belgium against England in midweek. Forest will need him to be in that kind of form for the final nine games of the season. A fresh start on the Trent River’s banks would undoubtedly be beneficial.
Neco Williams
The disappointment of Wales missing out for the Euros will linger for Neco Williams. However, returning to club football as quickly as possible can be beneficial. The right-back has been in excellent form recently, both for the Reds and his country.
Andrea Omobamidele
Willy Boly was injured while playing for Ivory Coast during the international break and could miss Saturday’s match. If he is not given permission to play against Palace, Andrew Omobamidele may return to the starting lineup.
Murillo
Murillo has been the subject of much conjecture throughout the international break, as transfer vultures circle. However, the Brazilian is unlikely to be sidetracked by transfer speculation. He has the potential to be a significant contributor for the Reds in the remaining games.
Harry Toffolo
It remains to be seen whether Ola Aina can reclaim his place in the starting lineup after a lengthy absence. He has made progress in his recovery, but he may not be ready for a starting spot. Harry Toffolo will have competition for his position when Aina returns, but he could keep it this weekend.
Ibrahim Sangare
Nuno faces a few challenges in the middle. He has a few alternatives but hasn’t found a solid partnership. The Reds desperately need Ibrahim Sangare to step up in the run-in.
Nicolas Dominguez
Nuno chose Sangare and Ryan Yates at Kenilworth Road. The latter came close to scoring, but Nuno may go with Nicolas Dominguez this weekend.
Divock Origi
Callum Hudson-Odoi may be disappointed that he has been on the bench for the past two games. Divock Origi has shown promise but has yet to produce the desired results. Nonetheless, he appears to have the upper hand in Nuno’s hierarchy.
Morgan Gibbs-White
There has been much debate about whether Gio Reyna deserves a place in the XI after impressing while on international service. The American is yet to make his Garibaldi debut, and he will have to compete with Morgan Gibbs-White for the No.10 position.
Antonio Elanga
Improving at the top of the pitch is critical for the Reds as they fight for survival. They need to create more opportunities and be more relentless in closing them out. Anthony Elanga can play a significant role in that.
Chris Wood
Chris Wood was forced off against the Hatters, but it is hoped he will be able to face Palace. Forest desperately need him to be available as Taiwo Awoniyi sustained a new injury just before the Luton encounter.
