Nuno Espirito Santo Confirms Danilo’s Return for FA Cup Clash

Nottingham Forest manager Nuno Espirito Santo has confirmed that Brazilian midfielder Danilo will be on the bench for their FA Cup third-round clash against Championship side Blackpool on Saturday. Danilo, who suffered a broken leg on the opening day of the season, has been back in training for several weeks and is set to make his return to the pitch.

“We all wish to see Danilo back on the pitch. He is going to be involved in the squad, he is not going to start, hopefully all of us will get to see him. But we are delighted to have him back,” said Nuno in his pre-match press conference on Thursday. The manager also noted that Danilo’s return has provided a boost to the team morale, describing his smile as “contagious.”

Danilo’s return comes as a significant boost for Forest, who have been without their first-choice midfield duo for much of the season. Ibrahim Sangare, another key midfielder, has also been sidelined with a serious hamstring injury since August. While Sangare is back in training, he is still working individually and is several weeks away from a first-team return.

Despite the absence of Danilo and Sangare, Forest have maintained impressive form, thanks in part to the performances of summer signing Nicolas Dominguez. However, Nuno emphasized the importance of integrating Danilo back into the squad gradually. “It is good to see Ibrahim working on the grass as well, even if he is still working on his own,” said Nuno. “It will be a big boost for us to have him back as well. But it will take a while.”

Nuno also confirmed that he will make changes to the starting lineup for the FA Cup match, with a crucial Premier League clash against leaders Liverpool looming on Tuesday. “It’s a reward, if I make myself clear, because the players are working very well,” said Nuno. “If we could, we would play them every game. There’s a lot of players in our squad who don’t have enough minutes. They deserve so much.”

Forest, currently in the midst of a strong season, are being talked about as potential title contenders. Their recent form has been a stark contrast to their early-season struggles, and the return of key players like Danilo could further bolster their campaign. The FA Cup clash against Blackpool offers an opportunity for Nuno to rotate his squad while keeping an eye on the bigger picture of their Premier League ambitions.