Nottingham Forest have suffered a significant setback with reports from The Telegraph confirming Ola Aina faces a lengthy absence.
The defender is expected to be out for at least three months after picking up a hamstring injury on international duty with Nigeria.
He was taken off in the tenth minute of Nigeria’s World Cup qualifier against South Africa earlier this week.
Scans have since shown damage that could keep him sidelined until early December as the best possible outcome.
The setback is also tough on Aina, who recently signed a new three-year contract with Forest during the summer.
The 28-year-old, who previously played for Chelsea and Torino, has been an important figure since joining Forest in the summer of 2023.
Aina was also one of Nuno Espirito Santo’s most trusted players and has featured in every league game so far this campaign.
His absence for such a long spell has led to his exclusion from Forest’s official Premier League squad list, submitted on Thursday.
Postecoglou faces selection dilemma
Ange Postecoglou recently took charge of Forest after the exit of Nuno Espirito Santo and is preparing for his first league test.
His debut match as manager comes against Arsenal when the Premier League returns following the international break.
The injury to Aina has already disrupted his early plans and forced him into a defensive reshuffle.
Oleksandr Zinchenko, who joined on loan in the summer, is not eligible to play against his parent club.
That leaves Forest short of options at full-back as they get ready for a tough trip to the Emirates Stadium.
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Wales international Neco Williams may have to switch from left-back to cover the right-hand side in Aina’s absence.
Another possible solution is handing a debut to £13 million summer signing Nicola Savona, who is still waiting for his first game.
Postecoglou will hope whichever option he turns to can provide balance and security in a crucial position.
Facing Arsenal will be a stern early test, and Aina’s absence has made that challenge even greater.