Nottingham Forest host Aston Villa at the City Ground in a tantalising Premier League clash. Both sides have shown flashes of brilliance this season, and Forest, buoyed by their recent victory at Old Trafford, have a real chance to leapfrog into fourth with a win.
However, Unai Emery’s Villa will look to build on their recent revival and keep the pressure on their hosts.
Nottingham Forest Recent Form
After a brief slump, Nottingham Forest have bounced back with an impressive win over Manchester United. The 3-2 victory at Old Trafford highlighted their resilience and attacking flair.
Forest have won two of their last three league matches, and Nuno Espirito Santo's side currently sit fifth in the table, just two points off the Champions League spots.
Injury and Team News
Forest are dealing with a few absentees. Midfielders Danilo and Ibrahim Sangaré remain sidelined, but the rest of the squad is fit.
Nuno Espirito Santo is unlikely to make many changes from the side that triumphed at Old Trafford.
Last Nottingham Forest Lineup
Here is how Nottingham Forest lined up for their last match:
Aston Villa Recent Form
Aston Villa have regained their form with three consecutive wins, including a thrilling 3-2 victory over RB Leipzig in the Champions League.
Despite an eight-game winless streak earlier, Unai Emery’s men are looking sharp again and will aim to leap above Forest with a win.
Injury and Team News
Jacob Ramsey remains out for Villa, and Leon Bailey is a doubt after missing the Leipzig match. Unai Emery might rotate his squad due to fatigue following their European exploits.
Last Aston Villa Lineup
Here is how Aston Villa lined up for their last match:
Nottingham Forest vs Aston Villa - Who is the Referee and VAR?
Here are the confirmed on-field officials for the game:
Referee: Sam Barrott.
Assistants: Tim Wood, Wade Smith.
Fourth official: Darren Bond.
VAR: John Brooks.
Assistant VAR: Craig Taylor.
Nottingham Forest Player to Watch
Morgan Gibbs-White was outstanding in Forest’s win against Manchester United, scoring and creating chances. He is a constant threat and is worth backing for a goal or assist.
Aston Villa Player to Watch
John McGinn, Villa’s captain, has been influential in recent weeks. His leadership, creativity, and eye for goal make him a key player to watch.
Prediction
This Midlands derby promises to be an exciting clash. Forest’s home form and recent momentum give them a slight edge, but Villa’s resurgence under Emery makes this a tough call. Expect a closely contested match, possibly with goals on both sides.
Our Prediction: Nottingham Forest 2-1 Aston Villa
Betting Tips
Tip 1: Forest to win the first half – 11/5 (BoyleSports)
Forest have started strongly in recent games and could take an early lead, especially with Villa potentially suffering fatigue after their European match.
Tip 2: Morgan Gibbs-White to score or assist – 8/5 (Bet365)
Gibbs-White is in fine form and contributes heavily to Forest’s attacking play.
Tip 3: Both teams to score – 4/5 (General)
Both sides have potent attacks and a history of high-scoring encounters.
