Super Eagles fullback Ola Aina has made his long-awaited return from injury, featuring in Nottingham Forest's 3–1 defeat to Aston Villa on Saturday afternoon.

Aina, who had not figured for club and country since September 9 2025, was named in the starting lineup and put in a solid shift before being replaced by Nicolo Savona in the 69th minute. 

The defender had been out of action after sustaining a hamstring injury during Nigeria’s 1–1 draw against South Africa's Bafana Bafana in a 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier last September.

The injury sidelined the former Chelsea defender for 23 matches in all competitions, ruling him out for 116 days as Forest juggled domestic and European campaigns.

His return is considered a major boost for manager Sean Dyche, who is battling to steer the club away from relegation this season.

Aina’s prolonged absence also ruled him out of the Super Eagles’ final squad for the Africa Cup of Nations, despite being named in the provisional list released in early December.

In his absence, Nigeria have impressed at the tournament in Morocco, winning their first three group matches to finish top and secure a place in the knockout stages. 

The Super Eagles will now face Mozambique in the Round of 16 on Monday, January 5, as they continue their quest for continental glory.

Meanwhile, Aina will be hoping to regain his top form in the weeks ahead.

Adeyemi Adewale