Nottm Forest vs Fulham

Premier League

Nottingham Forest is set to host Fulham at the City Ground on Tuesday night with a determination to nullify the four-point penalty imposed on them during the international break.

Nuno Espirito Santo's squad has already secured one point following the deduction and looks to gain another three in their battle against relegation. Supporters at the City Ground displayed their unwavering support with a banner declaring, "We shall fight and we shall overcome," underlining their solidarity with the club amidst Premier League sanctions.

In their first match post-penalty, Forest escaped the relegation zone with a 1-1 draw against Crystal Palace, aided by Luton Town's defeat at Tottenham Hotspur.

Despite conceding an early goal and surviving a couple of close calls, including Eberechi Eze's missed opportunities, Chris Wood's impressive header salvaged a crucial point for Nuno's side.

However, their form remains concerning with just one win in their last ten matches and six Premier League losses in 2024.

While awaiting the outcome of their appeal against the points deduction, Forest currently sits just outside the bottom three on goal difference ahead of Luton. However, they face a formidable Fulham side, against whom they have struggled in recent encounters.

Forest has suffered defeat in their last four meetings with Fulham at the City Ground, including a 3-2 loss in their inaugural Premier League clash last season. Additionally, a 5-0 thrashing at Craven Cottage earlier this season marked a turning point that led to the dismissal of fan-favorite Steve Cooper, subsequently replaced by Nuno.

Fulham, managed by Nuno's compatriot Marco Silva, had a mixed outing against bottom-placed Sheffield United over the weekend. Despite a 3-3 draw, Silva was pleased with his team's comeback from a 3-1 deficit.

Injuries plague Forest, with Taiwo Awoniyi sidelined, although Nuno clarified that his absence is not season-ending. Minor injuries to Willy Boly and Nuno Tavares are expected to keep them out, while Ola Aina returned to action after the Africa Cup of Nations.   

For Fulham, a fully-fit squad offers Silva options, with Rodrigo Muniz in formidable form, scoring eight goals in eight games. However, Armando Broja was omitted from the squad despite featuring for Albania during the international break.

Silva may opt for a single change in midfield, with Harrison Reed possibly replacing Sasa Lukic alongside Joao Palhinha.

Projected lineups:

Nottingham Forest:

Sels; Williams, Felipe, Murillo, Aina; Yates, Sangare; Elanga, Gibbs-White, Hudson-Odoi; Wood

Fulham:

Leno; Castagne, Adarabioyo, Bassey, Robinson; Palhinha, Reed; Iwobi, Andreas Pereira, Willian; Rodrigo Muniz