Morgan Gibbs White
Nottingham Forest faces a significant setback as key player Morgan Gibbs-White has been ruled out of their upcoming match against Malmo due to an injury. The absence of the Reds’ No.10 adds to an already extensive list of sidelined players, posing a challenge for head coach Sean Dyche as he prepares his squad for the crucial encounter at the City Ground.
Sean Dyche said: “We’re just settling an issue down with him. We’re hopeful it is nothing too serious but he will miss this one. We’re hopeful it will settle down pretty quickly but we are waiting on further news. So far, it is nothing too serious.”
Gibbs-White, who recently showcased his form by scoring in Forest’s 3-0 victory over Liverpool, will be a notable absentee. His absence leaves a gap in the attacking lineup, with James McAtee likely to step in. The injury list for Forest is extensive, including striker Chris Wood (knee), midfielder Douglas Luiz (hamstring), winger Dilane Bakwa (suspected groin), and full-back Oleksandr Zinchenko (groin). Additionally, Taiwo Awoniyi trained separately from the team, and long-term absentee Ola Aina (hamstring) remains unavailable.
Sean Dyche said: “Ola is not on the grass with us yet. He is still going to take a bit of time. Dilane Bakwa is getting fit. We are still missing a few, without a doubt. Hopefully, we can get those guys fit sooner rather than later. It is a good test for the squad, though. You want players who are going to step in. They are all desperate to play so it is a great opportunity for players who haven’t necessarily been starting – certainly under myself and maybe even before. It is a good opportunity for them. We want the players here to grow into themselves; not worry about replacing others. We want them to take it on and take the shirt on.”
The upcoming match against Malmo holds historical significance as it is a repeat of the 1979 European Cup final, where Nottingham Forest emerged victorious thanks to Trevor Francis’s decisive goal. The club plans to commemorate this iconic moment with a ‘One Night in 79’ celebration, inviting most living players from the final and the families of those who have passed away.
Sean Dyche said: “I remember the goal; everyone remembers that one. Trevor Francis, back stick, rolling across the shot-put ring. I remember that. I don’t know every detail of it, but I remember my parents – my dad, mainly – having the TV on and watching it. Bryn Gunn, who was involved at that time, is a mate of mine; we played together at Chesterfield at the end of his career and the beginning of mine. He showed me the medal, actually. It’s really, really tiny. The club are doing both sides proud, remembering a big day for both clubs but certainly for Nottingham Forest.”
Despite the injury challenges, the fixture against Malmo presents an opportunity for Forest’s squad to demonstrate their depth and resilience. The game not only serves as a test for the players stepping in but also as a chance to honor a historic victory in the club’s illustrious past.
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