Nottingham Forest head into their Europa League last-16 clash with FC Midtjylland on Thursday with several injury concerns, though there is growing optimism that striker Lorenzo Lucca could soon return to action.
Forest enjoyed the weekend off to prepare for the European tie as Vitor Pereira’s side look to build on momentum from their impressive 2-2 draw away at Manchester City.
While preparations have been positive, the Portuguese manager still has multiple fitness situations to monitor ahead of the crucial knockout fixture.
Lorenzo Lucca
Injury: Ankle
There is encouraging news regarding Lorenzo Lucca, who has been sidelined with an ankle injury in recent weeks.
Reports from Italy suggested the striker travelled to Rome for further medical assessment. According to Area Napoli, the results of the examination were positive and the problem is not considered serious.
“There is no risk of surgery; the boy's injury isn't particularly concerning and he should recover as quickly as possible.”
Lucca’s return would provide a major boost for Forest’s attacking options ahead of the final stretch of the season.
Potential return date: To be confirmed
John Victor
Injury: Knee
Goalkeeper John Victor continues his recovery after undergoing knee surgery earlier this year.
The Brazilian suffered the injury during the clash with Aston Villa in January and required a minor operation. The club have not provided a precise recovery timeline.
Potential return date: 2026/27 season
Nicolo Savona
Injury: Knee
Defender Nicolo Savona has been sidelined since January after suffering a knee injury that required surgery.
Vitor Pereira admitted recently that the club are still unsure whether the Italian will return before the end of the campaign.
“I really don’t know if he’ll play again this season. After the surgery the medical staff will inform us.”
Forest are hopeful he could return during the closing stages of the season if rehabilitation progresses well.
Potential return date: May
Chris Wood
Injury: Knee
Experienced striker Chris Wood is also working his way back from a knee injury.
The 34-year-old remains an important figure in Forest’s attack and Pereira is hopeful he will be able to return before the end of the season.
“I hope so because he is important for us.”
Wood’s return in April could provide a timely boost for Forest’s attacking depth.
Potential return date: April
Stefan Ortega
Injury: Calf
Goalkeeper Stefan Ortega suffered a calf problem during the recent match against Fenerbahce.
However, the injury is not expected to keep him out for long, with Pereira suggesting the German could return within days.
Potential return date: vs FC Midtjylland
Willy Boly
Injury: Knee
Defender Willy Boly remains unavailable due to a knee issue and has not been included in Forest’s Premier League or Europa League squads.
As a result, the experienced centre-back is unlikely to feature again this season.
Potential return date: Unknown
Key Insights
- Nottingham Forest face FC Midtjylland in the Europa League last 16.
- Lorenzo Lucca’s ankle injury is not considered serious.
- Chris Wood could return to action in April.
- Stefan Ortega may be available for the Midtjylland clash.
- Long-term injuries continue to affect Forest’s squad depth.
What’s Next
Nottingham Forest will hope to have as many players available as possible for Thursday’s Europa League knockout match.
The potential return of attacking options such as Lucca and Wood could be important as Pereira’s side juggle domestic and European commitments during the final months of the campaign.
Will Nottingham Forest overcome their injury setbacks and progress further in the Europa League?
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