Fulham are sweating on the fitness of Harrison Reed ahead of Saturday’s game against Nottingham Forest. Marco Silva made the claim to the club’s official website shortly after they’d defeated Sunderland in the FA Cup last night.
Reed has been instrumental to the fortunes of the Cottagers this season. He’s stepped up to the Premier League with ease and has been one of Silva’s most important players.
The 28-year-old has operated in central midfield roles, whilst he’s also been deployed as the holding option. Reed has made 23 appearances in all competitions and has developed into a firm fan favourite.
Back in September, he stunned Forest. Taiwo Awoniyi had fired the Reds into a first-half lead but Forest conceded three goals in six second-half minutes to trail 3-1.
Reed had waited a long time to score his first Fulham goal. His first came on that day at the start of the campaign and Lewis O’Brien’s goal proved a consolation in the end.
If the midfielder doesn’t make it, Forest would receive a huge boost. Silva has suggested that he’s not particularly satisfied that he’ll be available.
He told London World: “Harrison Reed had some problems, he twisted his knee a little bit, so let’s see in the next few days. Time is really short for the next game, but we will see.”
Fulham sweating on fitness of Reed ahead of Forest
Saturday’s game represents a big test for Forest. Fulham are enjoying a quality campaign and have their eyes firmly on a push towards European football.
The Reds face Manchester City and West Ham after this one and naturally, they won’t want to leave Craven Cottage empty-handed.
The Forest that Fulham face this weekend will be different to September. Back then, Cooper was still playing with three central defenders and not the 4-3-3 system that he prefers now.
Saturday will be tough but not impossible for Forest. With Fulham missing Reed, they will fancy their chances of winning the midfield battle and that could prove crucial.