Ola Aina rules out pressure as Forest face Aston Villa

Nigeria defender Ola Aina has declared Nottingham Forest’s readiness for the UEFA Europa League semifinal clash against Aston Villa on Thursday.

The Tricky Trees booked their spot in the last four of the Europa League after a 2-1 aggregate win against Portuguese side FC Porto after winning the second leg 1-0 at the City Ground.

The victory gave them a final date with Aston Villa and speaking ahead of the first leg contest, Aina has revealed Forest’s intention against their Premier League outfit.

Forest proud to be in semifinal

“We’re working hard every week. We’re looking forward to a semi-final now,” Aina told the media in Forest’s pre-match news conference as quoted by BBC Sports.

“The boss has done a great job but everyone has put in hard work. We’re reaping the benefits of that. “I don’t really think there’s that much pressure on us. We’re all very proud to be in this semifinal.”

Ole Aina added: “It’s definitely a special feeling. It’s a massive night for the club and the players. Everyone is relishing it.

“We’re just focused on what we do. It doesn’t matter about other results [in the Premier League]. We have our objectives.”

Forest will host first leg against Villa

Aina is coming back from an injury which saw him miss 16 Premier League matches talked of how he feels after the return which has seen him go ahead to play 15 matches.

“When I came back, I found my feet game after game. I’m back now and looking forward to tomorrow (Thursday),” explained Aina.

“I was buzzing that the team got through the league phase so I could be part of it and add my contribution.”

On coach Vítor Pereira, he said: “He’s brought his ideas in and they resonated with us. He has a clear vision. Everyone has bought into that.”

The Reds will host the first leg at the City Ground on Thursday, April 30, with the reverse fixture taking place at Villa Park a week later.