Ola Aina has highlighted the impressive form of Nottingham Forest star Morgan Gibbs-White, describing the England international as a fantastic player.

Gibbs-White has been in exceptional form and is statistically the most in-form player in the Premier League since the start of 2026.

During that period, he has registered ten goals and provided two assists in 15 appearances. 

The Forest captain has also delivered on the European stage, scoring in high-pressure Europa League knockout encounters against Fenerbahçe and Porto.

Speaking at the pre-match press conference on the eve of Forest's Europa League semifinal clash with Aston Villa, Aina reflected on Gibbs-White's progress over the past three years since they began playing together at the City Ground. 

Asked whether the midfielder has taken another step forward this season, Aina told reporters: "Definitely he’s taken a step, a massive step actually, because you see what he’s producing on the football pitch. 

"It's amazing to see and obviously it's good for himself, the team, so everyone’s obviously proud of him. He has just been doing everything right really.

"Off the pitch Morgan is still the same Morgan – very friendly, very outgoing, very outspoken."

The Nigeria international was also asked to compare Gibbs-White's level to some of the top players he has worked with during his career, including his time at Chelsea.

Ola Aina replied: "Morgan has the potential to obviously be a very top player. I wouldn't say anything because I don't want to put any unnecessary pressure on him, but he is the real deal.”

"And I enjoy playing with him. I know the fans enjoy watching him, and he's just a fantastic player."

Ola Aina has appeared in seven Europa League games this term, and provided an assist in Forest's 2-1 loss to Fenerbahce.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel