Nottingham Forest are navigating a delicate defensive puzzle as they prepare for their final fixture before the international break, welcoming Coventry City to the City Ground. While Oliver Glasner’s side is still riding high from securing their first Premier League victory of the campaign with a hard-fought 2-1 win over Aston Villa, squad fitness remains a major talking point on Trentside.
The Reds showed incredible grit in the Midlands last weekend, overcoming late defensive disruption to claim all three points thanks to goals from Liam Delap and Igor Jesus. However, with the physical demands of a grueling season catching up to the squad, manager Oliver Glasner faces anxious checks on several key personnel ahead of the weekend.
Defensive Absences and Late Scans Force a Reshuffle
Forest’s defensive depth was severely tested right before the trip to Villa Park when a dramatic late injury double-blow struck the squad. Both Nikola Milenkovic and Jair Cunha had trained normally in the build-up to the fixture, leaving the coaching staff confident in their availability.
However, scan results delivered late on Friday evening revealed hamstring tightness for both central defenders, forcing them out of the matchday squad entirely.
Nikola Milenkovic is officially ruled out for the upcoming clash against Coventry City. The towering defender is expected to use the upcoming extended international break to complete his rehabilitation, with a targeted return penciled in for October 11 when Forest face Oliver Glasner’s former club, Crystal Palace.
Fellow centre-back Jair Cunha is facing a similar battle with a hamstring issue. While Glasner remains cautiously optimistic that the Brazilian could feature against Coventry, the medical staff will take zero unnecessary risks with his long-term fitness.
The absence of both players forced a dramatic last-minute defensive reshuffle at Villa Park. With Murillo also playing through the pain barrier with a knee issue—though he courageously insisted on completing the full 90 minutes—Glasner deployed Ola Aina on the right side of a three-man backline and handed Ousmane Diomande his maiden Premier League start. The improvised unit held firm under intense pressure, showcasing the resilience that has pleased the Forest manager immensely.
Savona Nears Return as Treatment Room Clears
In brighter news, long-term absentee Nicolo Savona is continuing to make steady progress in his recovery. The Italian defender has been sidelined since January following knee surgery, but Glasner confirmed that his rehabilitation remains firmly “on track.”
Forest are understandably exercising extreme caution with Savona to prevent any secondary setbacks. If his recovery continues on its current trajectory, he could return to individual training out on the grass either during or immediately following the international break.
Looking Ahead to Coventry City
For Nottingham Forest, the upcoming international window offers much-needed relief to a stretched treatment room. But before the squad can catch its breath, they must successfully navigate a tricky test against Coventry City at home.
With momentum finally building following their statement win against Aston Forest, Glasner will demand that his side maintain their focus. Whether the likes of Jair Cunha return to the starting XI or Forest are forced to rely once again on their adaptable depth, the Reds are locked in on signing off for the international break with a statement performance in front of the City Ground faithful.
