Nottingham Forest secured a 2-1 victory over Aston Villa, but the win may have come at a cost for the Reds.
Nuno Espirito Santo celebrated passionately with his coaching staff on the sidelines after Anthony Elanga’s late winner clinched a vital three points.
Jamie Redknapp praised Espirito Santo following the game, suggesting that Forest now looks like a team genuinely aiming for a European spot this season.
Elanga, whose last goal came in February, was commended by Theo Walcott for his performance in the Reds’ earlier 3-1 win. The hope is that this goal marks a turning point in his form.
However, the victory was overshadowed by concerns over injuries, with Espirito Santo sharing updates afterward.
During the players’ lap around the City Ground to applaud the fans, Ryan Yates was spotted with one sock rolled down to his ankle, hinting that his substitution was injury-related rather than tactical.
Another unexpected substitution was Murillo’s exit, a rare and concerning sight for Forest supporters.
After the match, Espirito Santo addressed both players’ situations and expressed hope that the injuries are not serious.
He told Nottinghamshire Live: “Murillo and Yates both picked up knocks. I don’t know what. I think twisted ankles and big impacts. Hopefully nothing serious but we will assess.”
Murillo and Yates are paramount to Forest success this season
Although Yates didn’t start the 2024/25 season as a first-choice player, he has become a key figure in Nottingham Forest’s impressive climb up the table this season.
Henry Winter considers Yates an unsung hero, highlighting his dedication as the only player remaining from the 2022 play-off final squad.
However, losing Murillo to injury would be a much bigger blow for Forest than losing Yates.
Since making his Premier League debut in October 2023, the Brazilian has started every game and is essential to the team’s success.
Valued at £70 million during the summer, Murillo’s importance is clear. While Morato has performed well in relief, Forest needs the young star to stay fit.
With any luck, Forest will travel to Brentford in good shape, with both Yates and Murillo ready to contribute to the team once again.
