Nuno reveals why Nuno Tavares is missing for Nottingham Forest against Aston Villa

Nottingham Forest manager Nuno Espirito Santo has explained Nuno Tavares’ absence at Aston Villa.

Moussa Niakhate came into the side to replace Tavares in the Reds defence. And speaking to Premier League Productions, ahead of kick-off at Villa Park, Nuno said: “Nuno Tavares is injured so we had to make a decision.

“He was playing good and it is unfortunate that the injury came at a good moment for him and team but Moussa ([Niakhate) is ready to do the job.

“Football matches are never the same, they don’t repeat themselves so today is going to be a new one.”

It looks as though Niakhate will take up the left-back spot, lining up alongside Neco Williams, Felipe and Murillo in the back line ahead of goalkeeper Matz Sels. There is also the possibility Forest could switch to a three-man defence.

Nicolas Dominguez and Danilo will make up the midfield. Anthony Elanga, Morgan Gibbs-White and Callum Hudson-Odoi will support Taiwo Awoniyi at the top end of the pitch, assuming Nuno sticks with a 4-2-3-1 formation.

Forest: Sels; Williams, Felipe, Murillo, Niakhate; Dominguez, Danilo; Elanga, Gibbs-White, Hudson-Odoi; Awoniyi. Subs: Turner, Kouyate, Toffolo, Reyna, Yates, Origi, Montiel, Omobamidele, Ribeiro.