Nottingham Forest manager Sean Dyche has provided an encouraging update on Nigeria defender Ola Aina's recovery ahead of their Premier League encounter against Manchester United.

Aina sustained a hamstring injury while on international duty with the Super Eagles during their 1-1 draw against South Africa in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers in September.

The setback has kept him sidelined for ten matches across all competitions, six in the Premier League, one in the Carabao Cup, and three in the UEFA Europa League.

Speaking during his pre-match conference, Dyche confirmed that Aina is making steady progress in his rehabilitation but remains unavailable for selection.

"We have a couple of knocks. Ola is making good progress," the Forest manager revealed.

"And Zinchenko is a no at the moment. Unfortunately, it took longer than we thought."

Aina's absence has been deeply felt, with Forest struggling to find consistency and currently sitting in the Premier League's relegation zone.

However, Dyche will be hoping for the defender's swift return to fortify and boost his side’s defensive stability.

Meanwhile, Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle will also be keeping tabs on Aina’s recovery, as the full-back's fitness could determine his availability for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations tournament.

Adeyemi Adewale 

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