Nuno Espirito Santo must learn FA Cup lesson and hand chance to ‘unstoppable’ £30m star, he could save their European hopes

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Several Nottingham Forest players weren’t at their best at Wembley, and one substitute on the day deserves more of a chance at the City Ground.

Nuno Espirito Santo surprised many fans with his lineup against Man City, deciding to start 18-year-old Zach Abbott at right-back.

Abbott would impress fans up against the likes of Omar Marmoush and Jack Grealish, but not all of the Forest’s manager’s decisions would pay off.

Espirito Santo would earn criticism for his attacking selection on the day, after benching the speedy Anthony Elanga in favour of a more defensive lineup.

Attacking difficulties aside, however, the midfield was another issue for Forest at Wembley, with Danilo’s lacklustre display leaving Nuno with a big decision to make heading into the final run-in.

• READ MORE: Roy Keane highlights Nottingham Forest ‘problem’ during Man City defeat, it’s cost them already this season

Ibrahim Sangare deserves Nottingham Forest chance

Danilo’s performances have been poor as of late, leaving many to question why Espirito Santo is persevering with the Brazilian.

So with this in mind, the Forest boss would be wise to alter his midfield and hand a chance to Ibrahim Sangare.

The Ivorian has enjoyed mixed success since his £30m move to the City Ground (via BBC Sport), with injuries and lack of gametime overclouding his impressive performances.

Despite Sangare’s fitness improving recently, Espirito Santo has continued to bench the midfielder, with his last start coming against Man United back at the start of April.

As Forest’s hunt for European football continues, the numbers suggest reintroducing Sangare to the starting XI could potentially be key in securing a top-five finish come the end of the season.

Sangare should replace Danilo in Forest midfield

When it comes to the stats, it almost makes it a no-brainer for Sangare to replace Danilo in the Forest lineup.

The Ivorian provides more from a defensive aspect, with more tackles and interceptions, as well as fouls – something that often goes underrated in terms of halting opposition attacks.

Although Sangare is beaten in terms of shot-creating actions, he is more secure in terms of possession as well as being more progressive with the ball as well.

Alan Shearer tipped Sangare for success this season, and there is still time for the midfielder to prove that – whether he is given the chance to do so, we will have to wait and see.