Super Eagles defender Ola Aina could be set for a return to action with Nottingham Forest, albeit from the bench, in their upcoming away trip to Brighton & Hove Albion on Sunday.
Aina, 26, has been sidelined since picking up an injury during Nigeria's Africa Cup of Nations campaign.
“Aina returned to team training this week after recovering from an injury,” confirmed Nottingham Forest manager Nuno Espirito Santo to the media on Friday.
Images posted by the club on social media showed Aina participating in training drills, fueling speculation about his return.
Forest manager Nuno will be delighted to have one of his reliable players back after the full-back came back from the AFCON with an injury.
As it was revealed, Ola Aina played the final of the AFCON against Ivory Coast with an injury and aggravated it which made him unavailable after his return to the City Ground.
Despite the knock, Aina's performances at the AFCON were nothing short of stellar.
The versatile full-back, who can comfortably play on either flank, impressed throughout the tournament, even earning a spot in the team of the competition.
This came as no surprise, considering Aina played a full seven games for the Super Eagles impressing the tournament organisers with his defensive and offensive abilities as Nigeria went all the way to the final.
The defender also made the 2024 AFCON Team of the Tournament alongside compatriots William Troost-Ekong and Ademola Lookman.
While Aina won't be starting against Brighton, his return to training is a welcome boost for Nottingham Forest.
The former Chelsea and Torino defender has been a key player for the Reds this season, contributing an impressive goal in his 14 Premier League appearances.
His return to fitness will provide much-needed depth in Nottingham Forest's defense as they battle to avoid relegation.
Nottingham Forest sit 17th on the Premier League log with 24 points after 27 round of matches.
