Defender Nuno Tavares won’t be making the trip to Selhurst Park on Saturday night to take on Crystal Palace, according to Steve Cooper.
In the 2-0 loss away at Manchester City, the 23-year-old hobbled off, but Cooper admitted last week that he might come back before the break.
However, it appears that Saturday may be too soon for the Arsenal loanee, therefore Harry Toffolo may start at left-back as is rightfully due.
When Toffolo entered the game against Brentford in the 60th minute, he played well at left defender and set up Nicolas Dominguez for his inch-perfect header.
Cooper acknowledged yesterday during his pre-game press conference that it is doubtful Tavares will return to action before the international break.
difficulty finding depth at left-back
Even though Forest only has one game remaining before a two-week international break, the absence of left-backs may be a problem.
Every Forest supporter is aware of the club’s struggles at left-back.
With Tavares hurt, Ola Aina still recovering from an injury, and Moussa Niakhate serving a suspension, Toffolo is the only pure left-back for the Reds.
Toffolo is more than capable of filling in on the left side, so ideally he gets the chance right away on Saturday to build on his good performance from the previous day.
Danilo is a bit more long-term; it will still be some time before he rejoins the group.
He is outside on the grass, but he is still in the midst of his recovery.
The Brazilian’s swift comeback will be anticipated by Forest supporters so that he may continue the strong form he displayed in the closing few months of the previous campaign.
Danilo may have had a spectacular finish to the previous season, but it might be challenging for him to immediately reintegrate into the starting lineup after returning from injury.
Since then, stars like Nicolas Dominguez and Orel Mangala have excelled and are completely deserving of their spots in the starting XI.
Though Danilo could be dissatisfied with his present injury, he must wait patiently and seize the chance when it presents itself.
