Nottingham Forest have confirmed that Elliot Anderson will miss their Europa League quarter-final second leg against Porto following the passing of his mother, Helen. The England midfielder was absent from training on Wednesday and was not included in the squad for Thursday night's match at the City Ground.
Head coach Vitor Pereira, who had expressed uncertainty over Anderson's availability in his pre-match press conference, named a starting XI with five changes from the 1-1 draw in Portugal a week ago. Neco Williams, Ola Aina, Ibrahim Sangare, Omari Hutchinson, and Jair Cunha came into the side.
A club statement read: 'Elliot Anderson is unavailable for tonight’s fixture following the passing of his beloved mother, Helen. Everyone at Nottingham Forest Football Club extends its deepest condolences to Elliot and his family following this extremely sad news.' Porto also issued a statement offering their condolences.
Forest progressed to the quarter-finals after beating Fenerbahce in the knockout play-offs and overcoming Midtjylland on penalties in the last 16. They have already beaten Porto 2-0 at home earlier in the Europa League group stage.
Pereira said before the match: 'As a coach, as a player, a member of staff or a supporter, these are the nights you wish for in football. Between us all, we have a beautiful opportunity to reach a European semi-final, and we are really looking forward to the game.'
