With the Premier League clash between Nottingham Forest and Wolverhampton Wanderers fast approaching, both teams are gearing up for what promises to be an important match. Nottingham Forest is particularly focused on their player fitness heading to Molineux, and there's optimism surrounding the potential return of key players.
Nottingham Forest manager Nuno Espirito Santo addressed injury concerns this week, expressing confidence about the availability of defender Murillo and winger Callum Hudson-Odoi for the upcoming game. Both players were absent during Forest's recent 2-0 victory over Everton, with Murillo suffering from thigh discomfort and Hudson-Odoi dealing with complications from a dead leg sustained after the Boxing Day match against Tottenham. "Muchbetter. I think so. I think tomorrow we will decide, but I think they're going to be OK," said Nuno, indicating he expects both players to be fit enough for Monday.
Adding to the squad depth, skipper Ryan Yates is back after missing the Everton match due to suspension from accumulated yellow cards. His comeback is expected to bolster Forest’s midfield as they look to secure three points against Wolves.
Meanwhile, Wolves are also preparing for the match with their own set of challenges. Despite recent improvements under new head coach Vitor Pereira, defender Matt Doherty insists the team must remain focused and avoid complacency. The Wolves have managed to accumulate seven points from their last three matches, but Doherty emphasizes the necessity of maintaining this momentum. "It's not just the team, but the club in general, fan base, the city - things weren't looking great for us... So, we really needed to do something and we managed to do it," he remarked, reflecting on their season.
The upcoming match will serve as both watershed and litmus test for Wolves, who are currently fighting against relegation. Doherty also points out the unpredictable nature of the league, referencing Ipswich's recent surprising victory over Chelsea, which highlights the fact any team can secure points at any time. "We're not going to get too carried away. We just focus on the next game, even the next training session," he added.
Under Pereira’s guidance, Matt Doherty has taken on the role of right centre-back after spending much of his career as a wing-back. He revealed how he’s adjusting to his new position, enjoying the tactical involvement it offers without the extensive running required of full-backs. "I'm really enjoying it at the moment... It's a new position, so I'm still learning which is a good thing," he said. This newfound role complements Pereira’s strategy of utilizing natural full-backs to advance from defense, which could be pivotal against Nottingham Forest.
Overall, the stage is set for what could be not just a pivotal match for both teams but also for their respective supporters, who will be eagerly watching to see how their squads respond to the current pressures of league play. The clash at Molineux will not only affect current standings but could also have lasting repercussions as both clubs navigate the remainder of the season, aiming for safety or potential upward movements on the table.
Fans of both clubs are gearing up for what promises to be an electric atmosphere as Nottingham Forest visits Wolves, with the stakes high for both sides. With injuries playing a significant role and team morale fluctuatiing, it's anyone's match to take on Monday.