Nottingham Forest defender Ola Aina produced a steady performance as Nigeria drew their African Cup of Nations game on Sunday.
The national media delivered their verdict on the player following the 1-1 draw with Equatorial Guinea.
So, what did the media have to say about Forest player Aina? Let’s take a closer look…
National media deliver verdict on Forest defender Ola Aina
It would appear as though Aina grew into the game as Nigeria kicked off their AFCON campaign with a share of the spoils.
Aina might have been a little surprised to get the nod to start the game against Equatorial Guinea.
He’s often been viewed as a backup option to Bright Osayi-Samuel on the international stage and he must have been delighted.
The national media certainly appeared content with his performance and gave him a 7/10 for his efforts.
Soccer Net claimed: “The Nottingham Forest full-back looked shaky during the first half in his defensive duels, but grew into the game as time went on, providing width for the attacking and nearly scoring himself.”
Aina will face fight for City Ground place when he returns
With Gonzalo Montiel earning a reprieve under Nuno Espirito Santo, Aina will now face a battle for his place at Forest.
Neco Williams provides cover on the right, whilst Harry Toffolo has largely been steady over at left-back this season.
With Nuno Tavares also still in the ranks, Aina will face a fight to reclaim his shirt and playing at the AFCON can only help.
The 27-year-old has been a pretty useful signing for Forest on a free transfer.
He will be out of contract next summer though and to get another one he will need to play regularly under Espirito Santo.
Playing for Nigeria at the AFCON can only put him in good shape and he will hope to push his rivals for a shirt hard when he returns to Forest.
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