Nuno Espirito Santo has emphasized that Nottingham Forest will maintain a “no-excuses” mindset as they prepare to face Manchester United in the Premier League on Tuesday, despite enduring a physically demanding FA Cup quarter-final against Brighton.
Forest secured a semi-final spot against Manchester City after emerging victorious in a penalty shootout at the Amex Stadium following a goalless draw.
Nuno acknowledged that his entire squad is undergoing fitness evaluations ahead of the United clash. However, he insists that regardless of who is available, the team’s ambition to secure a Champions League berth remains unwavering.
The two-time European Cup winners have not featured in the continent’s premier club tournament since 1980. Currently sitting in third place in the Premier League standings, Forest hold a five-point advantage over Chelsea, who occupy fourth, with only nine matches remaining.
With UEFA’s updated qualification criteria, a top-five finish is expected to guarantee a Champions League spot next season.
“No excuses. Don’t give anyone excuses,” Nuno stated on Monday. “We’re going to go. We’ll assess the players, we’ll prepare for the game and we’re going to compete.”
He acknowledged the physical toll on his squad but remains optimistic about their recovery and readiness. “It’s very difficult on the players but they are recovering well. They are always being positive, so we are confident we can perform against a good team.”
Given the short gap between fixtures, Nuno stressed the importance of recovery. Fortunately, he noted, the evening kick-off provides extra time for preparation. “These short turnarounds are all about recovering and fortunately, the match is in the evening, so it will give us the day to finalise the details, so we will be OK.”
Meanwhile, star forward Chris Wood was sidelined during the Brighton clash due to a hip issue sustained while on international duty with New Zealand. His availability for the United match remains uncertain.
Nuno provided an update on Wood’s condition, explaining that his progress is being monitored closely. “He is improving. He’s getting better day by day. We have to assess him day by day,” he said.
The striker is still managing significant discomfort, which is delaying his return to full fitness. “It’s all about him being pain-free and then getting back to fitness. He has a big contusion. It’s very painful.”
AFP
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