Nottingham Forest are likely to investigate whether Morgan Gibbs-White can play in the Europa League semi-final with a protective mask after the midfielder sustained a deep facial wound requiring several stitches.
Injury details
Gibbs-White was injured during Forest's 3-1 win at Stamford Bridge on Monday following a collision with Chelsea goalkeeper Robert Sanchez. Boss Vitor Pereira confirmed the playmaker does not have concussion but revealed the severity of the cut. Gibbs-White posted a photograph on social media showing the extent of the injury, and Pereira described the situation as needing 'a miracle' for him to feature.
Pereira's comments
Pereira said: 'He has a deep cut, we will see. He is a fighter. We'll see what happens. I really believe we can have him next game. I said to him: Don't head the ball, just play.'
Forest know that if they avoid defeat at Aston Villa on Thursday, they will reach the Europa League Final, thanks to their 1-0 victory in the first leg at the City Ground.
Protective masks in football
It is not unusual for players to wear protective gear. Harry Kane scored for Tottenham in the 2016 north London derby at White Hart Lane while wearing a mask over a broken nose. Nigeria forward Victor Osimhen continues to wear one after sustaining serious facial injuries while playing for Napoli in 2021.
Such masks can sometimes be uncomfortable, hindering performance. But Gibbs-White is so important to Forest that he would surely play if permitted.
Gibbs-White's form
The 26-year-old has 16 goals and seven assists in all competitions and is thriving under Pereira, with six goals in his last eight matches. His leadership is crucial, too. With Ryan Yates unlikely to start, Gibbs-White would captain the side at Villa Park.
