Nottingham Forest star Serge Aurier could be closing in on a return to action for the Reds. The defender hasn’t played for the team since injuring himself during international duty for the Ivory Coast.
The 30-year-old player has watched on as the Reds have failed to win during the five games he’s missed. Welsh defender Neco Williams has been deputising for him, with limited success.
Aurier has been a wonderful signing for the Reds during 2022/23. He arrived at the club on a free transfer after leaving Villarreal where he helped them reach the last four of the Champions League.
The right-sided full-back has given his all for the Forest cause and he’s been sorely missed. In total this season, he’s made 22 appearances and the Reds are desperate for him to return.
Now, it would seem that he’s not a million miles away from getting back on the pitch. He took to Instagram yesterday as he watched on from the Peter Taylor Stand.
Forest were beaten 2-0 by Manchester United at the City Ground. Goals from Antony and Diogo Dalot proved decisive and the Reds remain in the Premier League’s relegation zone.
Aurier closing in on return and Cooper needs him
Nothing against Williams but as a full-back, Aurier is simply a better player. The international has experience playing at a higher level and that could prove vital in this survival battle.
Forest need points and quickly. In recent weeks they’ve been sinking without a trace and their stay in the Premier League looks like being over after a single season right now.
Aurier’s Instagram message has caused some intrigue. He issued a statement to the supporters that claimed, ‘we will fight to the end’ and also suggested that he’d ‘see you soon’ to the supporters.
Having Aurier back for the final seven games would be a massive boost. The Reds are in desperate need of a lift and they’ve played their best football when the 82-cap star has been on the pitch.