Super Eagles Defender Back in Contention for Tricky Trees’ Trip to Villa Park.

Ola Aina

Nottingham Forest have received a timely boost ahead of their Premier League encounter with Aston Villa, as defender Ola Aina returns to the squad following a lengthy injury absence.

The 29-year-old Nigeria international sustained a serious hamstring injury during a 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against South Africa in September 2025, limiting him to just three league appearances this season. The setback also forced him to miss the ongoing 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

Head coach Sean Dyche confirmed the positive news in his pre-match press conference: “Obviously Ola comes back into the group, which is good. He has put a lot of miles on the clock (on the training ground), not so many game hours, because of the situation. But his injury is fine, he feels fine, he is back into the group.”

Aina, a versatile full-back capable of playing on either flank, has built minutes recently with Forest’s development squad and can now be registered in the Premier League squad following the January window’s opening.

The Tricky Trees face a tough test at Villa Park on Saturday (12:30 PM kick-off), where Unai Emery’s side will look to bounce back from recent results. Aina’s return adds depth and experience to Forest’s defensive options as they aim to climb the table.

This comeback marks a significant milestone for the former Chelsea and Torino player, who was a standout performer in Forest’s strong campaign last season.