Nottingham Forest Predicted Lineup vs Everton

High-flying Nottingham Forest return to action with an important home clash against 15th-placed Everton as they look to get back on track following a 2-1 defeat away at Villa Park. Nuno Espirito Santo’s side currently sit third in the Premier League, and a win against the Toffees would bring their points tally to a highly impressive 60.

This would create some much-needed space between them and their top-five rivals, possibly putting them eight points clear of sixth-placed Manchester City, should the reigning champions lose to Crystal Palace. Here is the Nottingham Forest predicted lineup for their game against Everton at the City Ground.

Nottingham Forest Predicted Lineup for Key Premier League Clash vs Everton

How Forest Have Lined up Recently

Due to injuries to both Chris Wood and Taiwo Awoniyi, Forest were without a recognised striker for their game against Aston Villa on April 5, so Nuno was forced to adapt from his usual 4-2-3-1 system. The Tricky Trees lined up in a back five, with Morato joining the usual centre-back pairing of Murillo and Nikola Milenkovic.

Nicolas Dominguez and Neco Williams operated as wing-backs, with the Argentinian deputising for the injured Ola Aina. In midfield, Ryan Yates and Elliot Anderson retained their places, with star man Morgan Gibbs-White just ahead. Wingers Callum Hudson-Odoi and Anthony Elanga made up a makeshift front two in the absence of a number nine.

Prior to the Villa game, Forest had consistently lined up in a 4-2-3-1 system with a target-man forward, typically the in-form Wood, played up front alongside two speedy wingers. This tactical setup has not only brought fantastic success for the team, but has allowed players such as Wood, Elanga, and Hudson-Odoi to play the best football of their careers.

Forest’s Recent Form and Tactics

The Tricky Trees had won their past five games in all competitions before the defeat to Villa, and they have been outstanding throughout the season. A record of 13 clean sheets gives them the joint-best defence in the division, and they have only conceded 37 goals all term.

Forest have also made headlines as the team with the least possession in the Premier League, averaging just 40% of the ball this campaign. Their fantastic defensive organisation and ability to soak up pressure has allowed them to defeat teams without requiring any real possession, as they have a frightening ability to break forward with pace and cut through opponents.

Nottingham Forest Injuries to Consider

Forest fans will be waiting anxiously for injury news as three players will be subject to late fitness tests prior to the game. Strikers Wood and Awoniyi will be assessed on Friday ,April 11 alongside Anthony Elanga, with all three closing in on a much-needed return to Nuno’s side.

Aina, who has been ever-present for the Midlands side this season, playing 30 of their 31 games, is reportedly unavailable due to a calf problem. However, Alex Moreno, who was ineligible to play against parent club Villa, will be available and should replace the Nigerian.

Wood has been in imperious form this season, netting a career-best 18 league goals, and if he is passed fit for the Everton game, he could make a huge difference. Nuno will be desperate to have either the New Zealander or Awoniyi available to allow him to stick to his preferred system.