Nottingham Forest are dealing with several injury concerns ahead of their Europa League semi-final first leg against Aston Villa at the City Ground on Thursday evening. Centre-half Murillo has been ruled out, while midfielders Ibrahim Sangare and Dan Ndoye are doubtful after missing main training.
Murillo Ruled Out
Murillo will miss the match due to a suspected hamstring problem. Head coach Vitor Pereira confirmed the defender is not ready for Thursday but hopes he will return within days, potentially for the Premier League clash at Chelsea on Monday.
Jair Cunha Likely to Deputise
Fellow Brazilian Jair Cunha is the most likely replacement after he was substituted with an injury in Forest's 5-0 win over Sunderland last Friday. However, he participated in Wednesday's training session, boosting hopes he will be available to face Villa.
Sangare and Ndoye Doubts
Ibrahim Sangare and Dan Ndoye were absent from the main squad, completing individual sessions indoors. Pereira acknowledged the injury problems, stating the medical team is working hard to recover players but could not confirm their availability.
Pereira's Mindset
Despite the setbacks, Pereira is confident his team will seize the moment. "It is special for the players. It was a long road to be here, and now it is about enjoying it," he said. "The pressure is to be ourselves, to express our qualities on the pitch."
Forest are aiming to reach their first European final in 42 years, with the second leg at Villa Park next week. The match kicks off at 8pm BST at the City Ground.
