Ola Aina returns to Nottingham Forest training

Nottingham Forest has received a significant boost with the return of Nigerian defender Ola Aina to grass training, marking the final phase of his recovery from a long injury layoff.

The versatile full-back had been sidelined since sustaining a severe hamstring injury while on international duty with the Super Eagles in September. The injury occurred just ten minutes into Nigeria’s crucial 1-1 draw against Bafana Bafana of South Africa.

The 29-year-old subsequently underwent surgery and has spent the last two months in rehabilitation. His return to full training means the former Chelsea defender is now on track for a first-team return with the Tricky Trees next month.

Crucial Missed Matches and AFCON Race For Ola Aina

Aina’s absence has been keenly felt by both club and country. The injury forced him to miss four consecutive fixtures for the Nigerian national team, disrupting their recent preparations. Crucially, the defender has also been unavailable for several pivotal Premier League matches for Nottingham Forest during a demanding period.

His immediate focus now shifts to achieving full match fitness, not only to aid Forest but also to secure his place in the national squad for the upcoming continental showpiece.

Aina will be racing against time to be fully fit and sharp for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) finals, which are scheduled to kick off in Morocco on Sunday, 21 December. His return to the training pitch is a positive sign for the Super Eagles camp as they finalize preparations for the tournament.