Nottingham Forest manager Sean Dyche provided a cluster of injury updates ahead of his team’s Premier League match with Everton, offering measured optimism about forward Taiwo Awoniyi while cautioning that fullback Ola Aina still requires more time.

Dyche reported a positive training progression for several players. “Taiwo is on the grass and doing well,” he said, noting that Awoniyi, sidelined for three matches with a muscular problem is engaging in light on-field training as his rehabilitation continues. The striker’s measured return to running and ball-work is an encouraging sign for both club and country, given Awoniyi’s inclusion in Nigeria coach Eric Chelle’s provisional 54-man AFCON squad.

Douglas Luiz, another key midfield presence, is nearing a return to full training, Dyche added, while goalkeeper Angus Gunn is also making steady progress despite a slight delay. These incremental returns would bolster Forest’s options as the team navigates a congested fixture list.

By contrast, Dyche issued a sobering update on Ola Aina, who is yet to regain full fitness after suffering a hamstring injury in the opening minutes of Nigeria’s 2026 World Cup qualifier against South Africa in September. “Ola Aina still a bit of time yet,” Dyche said. The fullback will not be available for Nottingham Forest selection until January 2026 due to registration timelines and ongoing rehabilitation needs; he was, however, named in Chelle’s provisional AFCON roster despite the prognosis.

Dyche’s approach balanced realism with patience. For Awoniyi, the plan is a cautious ramp-up: light training now, then monitored progression toward full match readiness. The club will need to ensure the striker’s comeback is managed to prevent recurrence while capitalising on his goal threat when fit.

For Ola Aina, the recovery timetable is longer and shaped by both physiological healing and administrative considerations, the January availability aligns with transfer-window registration rules and the club’s planning. The defender’s absence will require tactical adjustments and possibly internal reshuffling to maintain defensive balance.

Forest supporters will hope that the return of key players such as Awoniyi and Douglas Luiz adds stability and goal threat as the club pushes through the season. Dyche’s updates underscore the fine margins clubs face managing international injuries, rehabilitation timelines and competitive demands across domestic and international calendars.