Sean Dyche Burnley
Nottingham Forest’s triumph over Tottenham Hotspur last weekend has provided a much-needed cushion in the Premier League standings, placing them five points clear of the relegation zone. As the team gears up for their next fixture at Craven Cottage, manager Sean Dyche has offered insights into the injury status of several key players. Sels and Dominguez, who missed the recent 3-0 victory at the City Ground, are hopeful of making a return.
Sean Dyche said: “It has calmed right down, his knee,” referring to Dominguez. “We made a judgement call (for Sunday). The doctor thought it would calm down and it did do, but we couldn’t take a risk when we are just getting players back fit. Matz has trained this week so hopefully should be fine for selection.”
The injury list at Forest has been a concern, but Dyche remains optimistic about the progress of other players. Midfielder Ryan Yates is expected to be sidelined for a while due to a hamstring issue. Meanwhile, striker Chris Wood and defender Ola Aina are showing positive signs in their respective recoveries.
Dyche commented on the overall injury situation: “It’s looking better. Woody is still recovering on the grass at the moment. He is not with us yet but is recovering. Ola is halfway through his progress in fitness. He is training more regularly with the team now, which is good, but it has been a long-term injury so we have had to be careful with that one. He is still a bit of a way off with his true fitness. He has been out a long time and it takes even longer to get to that deep fitness, but he is making good steps forward.”
The return of Dominguez is particularly timely for Dyche, given the absence of Ibrahim Sangare, who is currently on international duty for the Africa Cup of Nations. Sangare has been instrumental in Forest’s recent performances, including a standout display against Sturm Graz and a goal-scoring effort against Spurs.
Dyche praised Sangare’s contributions: “We have enjoyed working with him and I think he has enjoyed it as well – he’s shown that through his football. He was terrific against Sturm Graz and that really got him in the side. He has had a couple of quiet ones, but that can happen. But generally he has done very well, and was very good against Spurs with a fine goal to cap that performance.”
As Forest prepares for their next challenge, the potential return of key players could provide the boost needed to continue their climb away from the relegation zone. With a growing training group and increased competition for places, Dyche’s squad looks poised to tackle the challenges ahead.
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