Vítor Pereira has played down concerns surrounding Ola Aina following Nottingham Forest’s Europa League semifinal first-leg win over Aston Villa.
The defender was substituted in the second half after going down late in the contest, but the Forest manager moved quickly to reassure supporters after speaking with the player.
Aina has been a regular presence in recent weeks. He has started 15 straight Premier League matches since returning earlier in the season. His consistency has strengthened Forest’s defensive setup during a crucial stage of the campaign.
The semifinal first leg remained tight throughout. Forest broke the deadlock in the 71st minute after a penalty decision went their way, following a handball by Lucas Digne.
Aina started the match and completed two tackles before being replaced in the 75th minute by Zach Abbott. Despite that change, Forest held their lead and secured a hard-fought win to take into the return leg.
After the match, Pereira revealed details of his exchange with the Nigerian international and suggested there was no immediate cause for alarm.
”I said to him, I’m sorry but it’s impossible for you to be injured! He said he will be in the right condition, and I hope he will”.
His response reflects cautious reassurance rather than certainty, with the player himself indicating confidence about his condition.
Forest now turn attention to their next league fixture against Chelsea, although Pereira avoided confirming whether Aina will be available.
“Now this game is done, we will focus on Chelsea and I will try to check the availability of the players and hopefully get some good information from the medical team.
“They will work hard for sure and I will just think about the Chelsea game because it’s a very important game.
“I would rather have players who are fit than have a player who has a problem because if they have a problem, they can’t give 100%, which is what we need.”
Pereira’s update offers reassurance, but Forest are still awaiting further checks before making any decision on Aina’s involvement in the coming days.
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