Midfielder suspended, veteran returns and long-term absentees: Nottingham Forest’s team news for United clash

NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 26: Callum Hudson-Odoi and team mates of Nottingham Forest applaud fans following the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Nottingham Forest at St. James Park on December 26, 2023 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

Nuno Espirito Santo faces another significant test in just his third match in the dugout as Nottingham Forest boss, when they face Manchester United on December 30.

The former Wolverhampton Wanderers manager was sought to succeed fan-favourite Steve Cooper at the City Ground following his sacking on December 20.

It came after a lacklustre string of results for Forest  – five defeats in six Premier League games – and while most supporters would’ve likely opted to give the Welshman more time, the board decided to pull the curtains on Cooper’s tenure after two years.

Nuno has overseen one win and one loss since taking the reins, falling short in injury-time against Bournemouth to lose 3-2 but overturning Newcastle United convincingly with a 3-1 triumph at St. James’ Park courtesy of a Chris Wood hat-trick.

Such results and spirited performances will have the Trees feeling as though they can take something from tomorrow’s outing, especially on their home turf and in front of their ever-faithful and vocal fans.

Forest team news for United clash

In terms of Nuno’s options for the contest, he will be granted the return of Willy Boly following his red-card fiasco versus the Cherries, however, Ibrahim Sangare – Forest’s record signing – picked up his fifth yellow card of the term last weekend and will serve a one-match suspension on Saturday evening.

Serge Aurier, Felipe and prolific frontman Taiwo Awoniyi are long-term absentees.

Carrington graduate Anthony Elanga will also meet his former club, where he spent nine years, for just the second time since his summer exit.

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