This Saturday sees Nottingham Forest host Ipswich Town at the City Ground in a Premier League clash that could change the trajectory of both sides' seasons.
Both teams are eager to bounce back from recent results, with Nottingham Forest looking to regain their defensive solidity and Ipswich aiming to escape the relegation zone following a well earned draw against Man United that arguably should've seen them take home all three points.
Nottingham Forest Recent Form
Forest have endured a tough spell, suffering back-to-back defeats against Arsenal and Newcastle, conceding three goals in both fixtures. Despite this, their form earlier in the season saw them break into the top half of the table, and they remain seventh, just on the fringes of the European places.
Injury and Team News
Forest’s injury list includes key players like Danilo and Ibrahim Sangaré, while Morgan Gibbs-White and Anthony Elanga face late fitness tests.
Chris Wood, who was benched last week following international duty, is expected to start, while Taiwo Awoniyi may make way for him.
Last Nottingham Forest Lineup
Here is how the team lined up for their last match against Arsenal:
Ipswich Recent Form
Kieran McKenna’s Tractor Boys are unbeaten in three Premier League games, with credible draws against Leicester and Manchester United.
However, defensive issues persist as they have not kept a clean sheet in their last eight games, leaving them in 18th place, on goal difference behind Wolves.
Injury and Team News
Ipswich have their own injury concerns, missing Janoi Donacien, George Hirst, and Chiedozie Ogbene, while doubts surround Ben Johnson and Jacob Greaves.
Despite these challenges, their attacking line continues to create chances, as seen in Omari Hutchinson’s equaliser against Manchester United.
Last Ipswich Lineup
Here is how Ipswich lined up in their last match against Manchester United:
Nottingham Forest vs Ipswich - Referee and VAR
The match will be officiated by:
Referee: Tony Harington.
Assistants: Eddie Smart, Marc Perry.
Fourth official: David Webb.
VAR: Matt Donohue.
Assistant VAR: Neil Davies.
Nottingham Forest Player to Watch
Chris Wood will be pivotal for Forest as he returns to the starting XI. His physical presence and goal-scoring ability could provide the edge they lacked against Arsenal.
Ipswich Player to Watch
Omari Hutchinson has been a bright spark for Ipswich, scoring a brilliant goal against Manchester United. His creativity and flair will be crucial in unlocking Forest’s defence.
Prediction
Both teams have shown vulnerabilities in defence, and Ipswich’s attacking intent could cause problems for Forest. However, Forest’s strong record against newly promoted teams might give them the edge. A 1-1 draw seems the most likely outcome.
Betting Tips
Tip 1
Both teams to score – Neither side has shown defensive consistency in recent matches.
Tip 2
Chris Wood to score anytime – With Forest lacking firepower in recent games, Wood’s return makes him a key threat.
Tip 3
Under 2.5 goals – Both teams are likely to play cautiously, given their recent results and injury concerns.
