Ola Aina only joined Nottingham Forest a little over two weeks ago, but he’s already proving to be a shrewd addition.
The 26-year-old Nigerian international joined the club on a free transfer after his contract with Italian side Torino expired at the end of June.
Aina, predominantly a right-back, has featured at left-back through pre-season and impressed in games against PSV, Rennes and Eintracht Frankfurt with boss Steve Cooper labelling Aina as a ‘fantastic athlete‘
With Omar Richards still yet to feature after multiple injury troubles and Harry Toffolo charged by the FA for breaking their betting rules, Aina looks most likely to start at the Emirates on Saturday.
Key Premier League experience
Aina is no stranger to the Premier League, having played 31 times for Fulham during the 2020/21 campaign.
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The Nigerian featured down the left and right for Fulham, showcasing his versatility, and not looking out of place in his unnatural left-sided position.
He scored twice that season from wing-back, including a screamer on his weaker foot in a 2-0 win against West Brom, which was his first Premier League goal.
Although the Cottagers suffered relegation that season, Aina had a very solid season and didn’t look out of place in the top flight.
With Serge Aurier and Neco Williams both strong options for Steve Cooper’s side at right wing-back, the 26-year-old may have to settle for an unfamiliar position this season.
However, with Richards and Toffolo missing as previously mentioned, he has a real opportunity to continue his good pre-season form and cement his position as a starter down the left-hand side for Forest.