Nottingham Forest head coach, Ange Postecoglou, has shared an uplifting message with Super Eagles defender Ola Aina, who is currently recovering from hamstring surgery.
The 28-year-old right-back picked up the injury during Nigeria’s World Cup qualifiers in September. Aina featured for almost the entire match against Rwanda in Uyo but lasted just ten minutes in the following clash against South Africa in Bloemfontein, which ended 1-1,a result that dented the Super Eagles’ qualification hopes.
Following the setback, Aina underwent surgery and is expected to return to full training by December. The former Chelsea star has already expressed gratitude to fans for their overwhelming support during his recovery.
Postecoglou, who recently took charge of Nottingham Forest after Nuno Espírito Santo’s exit, admitted Aina’s injury came as a major blow. The Australian tactician missed the chance to use the versatile defender in his first match against Arsenal.
Speaking to BBC Sport UK, Postecoglou explained why Aina is central to his plans:
“I was really looking forward to working with him. I watched him closely last season, and with the way I want my full-backs to play, he is a perfect fit. His surgery went well, and now it’s about working hard in rehab. I’m sure he’ll bounce back and make a huge impact when it matters most.”
The 60-year-old coach further encouraged Aina, noting that although the injury came early in the campaign, the defender can still play a decisive role in the second half of the season.
Aina’s absence is also a major concern for Eric Chelle, with doubts growing over the defender’s availability for the AFCON 2025 tournament. His fitness will be closely monitored in the coming weeks as Nigeria aims to have one of its most experienced defenders fit and ready for continental duty.
