Vitor Pereira
Defender Murillo has been sidelined for Nottingham Forest’s last two matches due to a calf injury. However, the Brazilian traveled with the squad to Istanbul and participated in a training session at the Chobani Stadyumu, raising hopes of his involvement in the upcoming Europa League play-off against Fenerbahce. Forest is keen to secure a positive outcome in the first leg of this crucial tie.
Pereira said: “He is here training with us. That means he is in contention to play tomorrow.”
In addition to Murillo’s potential return, Nottingham Forest has made a significant change to their Europa League squad. Goalkeeper Stefan Ortega has been added, replacing the injured Matz Sels. Ortega, who previously played for Manchester City, was not initially included in the revised squad submitted earlier this month. His inclusion comes as Forest aims to progress to the last 16 of the tournament. Sels, who suffered a groin injury during a 1-1 draw with Crystal Palace, has been sidelined, but Pereira has assured that the Belgian’s absence is not expected to be long-term.
Pereira said: “I don’t think it is a long-term injury. I spoke with him yesterday and he is recovering well. We will see.”
Pereira, who recently took over from Sean Dyche, faces the dual challenge of ensuring Nottingham Forest’s Premier League survival while also advancing in European competition. The Portuguese manager, who has previously managed Fenerbahce, expressed confidence in his players’ abilities and emphasized the importance of rebuilding their confidence.
Pereira said: “I’m very confident in (the players’ abilities). But this is my character and my personality. I decided to accept this job and the project because I recognise the quality in my players and the squad. We just need to get the confidence again, and this is my work.”
The upcoming match against Fenerbahce is critical for Nottingham Forest, both for their European aspirations and as a test of Pereira’s early impact at the club. With Murillo potentially back in the lineup and Ortega ready to step in as goalkeeper, Forest is poised to put up a strong fight in Istanbul.
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