As the Premier League prepares for another pivotal matchday, several managers have revealed fresh injury concerns that could impact their squads.
Nottingham Forest manager Nuno Espírito Santo delivered a blow to his side’s defensive options, confirming that full-back Ola Aina will be out of action for the foreseeable future after sustaining a calf injury.
The absence of key players across multiple clubs could prove decisive in this weekend’s fixtures.
“So we did the scan and he’s going to be out for a while and not available. It is a big blow,” Nuno said in an interview with the Premier League posted on Friday. “We will miss his quality, his talent and the routines we already have with his team-mates.”
Although no clear timeline has been given, Nuno remained cautiously optimistic.
“It is always difficult when it is a calf injury, we have to give him time. We do not have an exact time schedule… We will assess him. He will definitely be out for Villa and for Everton he will be a doubt. Beyond that we will assess him. I am positive that we will see him again [before the end of the season],” he said
On striker Chris Wood, Nuno added, “Assessing, assessing, like I’ve been telling you it’s going to be day by day. Hopefully tomorrow better and he continues to improve.”
Meanwhile, Arsenal defender Gabriel Magalhaes will miss the remainder of the season due to a hamstring injury sustained during the midweek victory over Fulham. The club confirmed on Wednesday that he will undergo surgery.
“Further to being substituted during our match against Fulham on Tuesday, we can confirm that Gabriel Magalhaes has sustained a hamstring injury which requires surgery,” a club statement read. “Gabi will undergo a surgical repair procedure to his hamstring in the coming days… with the aim to be ready for the start of next season.”
For Newcastle United, manager Eddie Howe revealed that striker Alexander Isak and defender Kieran Trippier are being monitored after picking up niggles.
“We’ll wait and see today, I will see them for the first time today,” he said. “We are monitoring Anthony [Gordon], he is still recovering. He has done individual training not group training.”
On Harvey Barnes, Howe expressed satisfaction with the winger’s recent displays.
“Harvey has been champing at the bit to play… he brings unique things to the group, he is a goal threat. I trust him a lot,” he said.
He also confirmed that Fabian Schar has signed a new contract, stating, “Delighted he has signed. He has been really good for us… an ever-present in the squad when fit.”
At Bournemouth, manager Andoni Iraola confirmed several players are on the mend defensively, including Julian Araujo, who is expected to be in the squad after returning to training.
“That’s good… we are recovering some of the defenders we’ve had out,” Iraola said.
However, concerns remain for midfielder Ryan Christie, who may require surgery after dealing with persistent groin issues.
“Ryan’s situation is worrying… it’s a moment where his body is telling him that maybe it’s time,” said Iraola. “There is a chance we decide that he should have the surgery now, recover, take his time and be ready for next season.”
Justin Kluivert is also doubtful. “Justin is going to be difficult… he feels tight so it’s difficult,” Iraola said, casting uncertainty over his involvement.