Nottingham Forest boast the longest injury list in the Premier League with a total of ten players unavailable or unlikely to feature for the Tricky Trees.
Despite criticism from all corners of the punditry world, signing thirty players has probably saved Cooper’s side from a lot of trouble this season, providing important cover in key positions.
The arrival of the likes of Felipe and Keylor Navas have saved Forest from a disastrous injury situation and although results have not been what fans would have hoped, there is still enough in the dressing room for Forest to secure Premier League survival.
In preparation for the final run in which will decide Forest’s Premier League fate, we take a look at their extensive injury list and the potential return dates of some key players this season.
1. Chris Wood
The Kiwi big man sustained a thigh injury in his first involvement off the bench in Forest’s 3-1 loss to Spurs. The injury does not appear to be as serious as many others for Forest so the international break may be enough time for Wood to recover. Expected return date: 01/04/23
2. Dean Henderson
The charismatic shot-stopper has been missed on the banks of the River Trent, but Forest fans will have to wait longer for his return. Cooper told fans that Henderson would be unlikely to return to training before the international break so they will have to make do with three-time Champions League winner Keylor Navas. While Navas has been a brilliant and timely acquisition for the Reds, Henderson seems to have a little bit of magic in a Forest shirt, pulling out game-winning saves on numerous occasions this season. The big question for Cooper is who claims the number 1 shirt when both keepers are fit. Expected return date: 08/04/23
3. Emmanuel Dennis
Despite scoring the opening goal in Forest’s 2-1 loss to Newcastle, Dennis picked up a toe injury that forced him off. With Dennis playing himself into form and securing more minutes under Cooper, could he inspire Forest to steer clear of relegation? Expected return date: 01/04/23 | AFP via Getty Images
4. Cheikhou Kouyate
Steve Cooper has made no bones about how influential the Senegalese midfielder is in this squad. With results going against us and Kouyate back in full training, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see him return to the line-up to solidify a somewhat leaky Forest side. Kouyate return to full training last week and with the international break giving Cooper’s side a much needed reset, his return to action is close. Expected return date: 01/04/23