Ola Aina’s Return Gives Nottingham Forest A Major Boost As Andy Reid Hails His Influence

Former Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Andy Reid has praised the impact of Super Eagles defender Ola Aina, stressing how crucial the Nigeria international has been to Nottingham Forest since returning from injury.

Aina has quickly re-established himself as one of Forest’s most important players, with his comeback coinciding with a noticeable improvement in the club’s performances during a tense Premier League survival battle.

A Key Figure For Forest

Ola Aina was one of Forest’s standout performers last season, emerging as one of the Premier League’s most consistent full-backs and playing a vital role in the club’s successful fight to avoid relegation. His form attracted interest from top clubs, including Manchester City, before he committed his future to the City Ground by signing a contract extension.

The 27-year-old began the current campaign strongly, but his momentum was halted in September after he suffered a hamstring injury while on international duty with Nigeria. The setback ruled him out for several months and forced him to miss AFCON 2025, a major blow for both club and country.

During his absence, Forest struggled for stability, with results and defensive structure taking a clear hit.

Immediate Impact After Injury Return

Since returning to full fitness in January, Aina has been restored as a regular starter — and his influence has been immediate. Forest have lost just two of their last five matches in normal time, showing greater resilience and balance across the pitch.

His performance in the 1–1 draw against Crystal Palace stood out in particular. Even after Forest were reduced to ten men, Aina delivered a disciplined and composed defensive display, helping the team secure a vital point.

Andy Reid On Aina’s Importance

Speaking on Sky Sports, Andy Reid highlighted how much Forest missed Aina during his injury layoff and the qualities he brings to the side.

“He was a big miss when he was out. He is a big plus for this team coming back in. What he does, not just defensively but what he does going forward as well and then you couple that with the personality that he brings in,” Reid said.

Reid went on to underline Aina’s all-round value to Sean Dyche’s squad:

“He definitely brings that personality, brings that defensive solidity, his pace but also going forward is a real threat as well. So Dyche will be delighted to have him back.”

Crucial To Forest’s Survival Hopes

Nottingham Forest currently sit 17th in the Premier League, and with the relegation battle expected to go down to the wire, Aina’s presence could be decisive. His blend of defensive reliability, athleticism, and attacking support makes him indispensable as Forest look to pull clear of danger.

For Dyche, having a player of Aina’s quality fit and available for the final stretch of the season could be the difference between survival and relegation.

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