High flyers have to be ‘really careful’ with injuries, says Santo

Nottingham Forest will not focus on Everton before trying to finish second in the Premier League, manager Nuno Espirito Santo has said.

The Toffees host Forest on Sunday (1500GMT) in a four-game unbeaten run that includes competition from Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester City, but Santo is more concerned about injuries amid a three-game schedule in eight days.

“It’s not about preparing for the game – it’s about recovering well and competing,” said Santo, who oversaw a fourth straight win when Forest beat one of his former employers, Tottenham, 1-0 at home on Thursday.

“It is very difficult, which is why we have to be very careful with the recovery. Both teams will face the same problems; there’s no advantage for either of us – it’s about how well we can compete under the circumstances.”

🗣️ “We were ready for this tight schedule”

Nuno Espírito Santo says his Nottingham Forest side must be careful with their recovery ahead of the game against Everton 🌲 pic.twitter.com/tFxARhkxq8

— Sky Sports News (@SkySportsNews) December 27, 2024

Nottingham Forest injuries

Ibrahim Sangare remains sidelined with a thigh injury for Forest, while fellow midfielder Danilo did not play with an ankle problem 15 minutes into the season.

Santo said both players would be sidelined for a “short period”. “We have some problems, but we have a team,” added the Portuguese.

“It’s always about the team. You can see players coming in and making an impact. It’s huge for us that everyone plays a role in that.

“Now is the moment to be careful, and the team must help. Every player must be ready. Let’s not predict anything. It’s about the energy of the players.”

🎶 Oh, the fog rolling off the Trent… 🎶 pic.twitter.com/UPiUxfN2xI

— Nottingham Forest (@NFFC) December 27, 2024

Premier League table

Everton are 17 points behind Forest and have won one and drawn four of their nine away league games in 2024, beating second-placed Ipswich Town on October 19.

Forest have won five of their last six home games, helping them move a point clear of fourth-placed Arsenal and four clear of fifth-placed Newcastle.

The Gunners could rise above Forest when they host Ipswich on Thursday (8.15pm), while Chelsea visit The Tractor Boys on Monday (7.45pm).

After visiting Everton, Forest’s only game in the Premier League in 16 days is a visit to Wolves on January 6 (20:00).