Head coach Nuno Espirito Santo understands the significant importance of approaching tonight’s FA Cup clash with Exeter City in the right frame of mind, knowing full well that Nottingham Forest’s continued success in the competition hinges on their focus and determination. The FA Cup tie, set to kick off at St James Park at 8 pm, comes after a weekend that saw Liverpool suffer an unexpected defeat to Plymouth Argyle, who sit at the bottom of the Championship. This shocking loss serves as a clear warning for all top-tier teams about the unpredictability of the cup, especially with Forest now standing as the highest-ranked team left in the competition. The Reds are determined to keep their position and will not take Exeter lightly, making sure they are fully prepared for a tough contest.
In his pre-match press conference on Monday morning, Nuno was asked about his knowledge of Exeter. With his usual calm confidence, he responded, “Enough! Enough to know it’s going to be very hard.” This statement underscores his respect for Exeter’s capabilities, but also his awareness of the challenge ahead.
Despite his recognition of the tough task, Nuno is expected to make changes to his lineup. Just as he did in the previous round against Luton Town, Nuno plans to give some of the players who have not featured regularly a chance to play and prove themselves. This is part of his strategy to rotate the squad while maintaining a competitive edge.
One of the key changes will be in goal, where Carlos Miguel will start in place of Forest’s regular No.1, Matz Sels. Miguel has been given the responsibility to keep goal for the duration of the club’s FA Cup run, with the hope that he can help guide the team all the way to the final. This move signifies Nuno’s confidence in Miguel’s abilities and his commitment to rewarding players who have shown promise but lacked consistent playing time.
Defensively, Forest may switch their usual 4-2-3-1 formation and opt for a back three. Willy Boly, Morato, and Harry Toffolo played together in the previous round against Luton and could form the central defensive trio once again. If Nuno decides to stick with a back four, Toffolo would compete with Alex Moreno for the left-back position. A system change could allow both players to feature in the lineup, with another opportunity for young Eric da Silva Moreira to get a run out on the right side of defense.
Midfield presents Nuno with another selection dilemma, especially regarding the fitness of Ibrahim Sangare. The 27-year-old is making his way back from a hamstring injury and has not started a match since August. He made his return as a substitute during Forest’s dominant 7-0 victory over Brighton & Hove Albion, and with time to regain fitness since that appearance, Nuno will assess whether he’s ready to start. Another player who has recently returned from injury is Danilo, who sustained a broken ankle on the opening day of the season. Danilo made a brief appearance as a substitute against Luton before starting against Brighton. Ryan Yates and Nicolas Dominguez are also in the mix for a place in midfield, adding to the intense competition for spots in the heart of Forest’s lineup.
Another key question mark surrounds the fitness of winger Callum Hudson-Odoi. The 23-year-old has missed the last two matches due to a groin issue, and Nuno was not forthcoming about his availability in the press conference. Even if Hudson-Odoi is cleared to play, there’s the question of whether Nuno will risk starting him, especially with an important Premier League clash against Fulham looming on Saturday. It’s likely that Nuno will be cautious with Hudson-Odoi’s recovery and opt not to start him in this FA Cup match.
In all likelihood, Nuno will keep his key players on the bench and hand the starting spots to Jota Silva and Ramon Sosa as the wide attackers. These two players are expected to provide support for Taiwo Awoniyi, who will lead the line in an effort to regain his best form. The importance of Awoniyi finding his rhythm in front of goal has been heightened by Forest’s decision not to sign a new striker during the winter transfer window. With Awoniyi and Chris Wood the only recognized forwards available, it’s crucial for both to step up and deliver the goals required to see Forest through the rest of the season.
As for the predicted starting lineup for Forest in tonight’s FA Cup tie, it is expected to be: Carlos Miguel in goal; a back three of Willy Boly, Morato, and Harry Toffolo; Moreira, Yates, Danilo, and Moreno in midfield; with Jota, Awoniyi, and Sosa forming the attacking trio. Nuno Espirito Santo will undoubtedly be looking for a professional performance to ensure Forest progresses in the competition, maintaining their position as one of the top teams still vying for the FA Cup trophy.
