Nottingham Forest have not abandoned hope of having Murillo and Morgan Gibbs-White available for their Europa League semi-final second leg against Aston Villa on Thursday, despite both players sustaining recent injuries.
Gibbs-White's Facial Injury
Gibbs-White required several stitches to a facial wound following a collision with Chelsea goalkeeper Robert Sanchez. The midfielder showcased his battle scars on social media after receiving treatment. According to a report from Daily Mail Sport on Tuesday, Forest were anticipated to explore the possibility of Gibbs-White wearing a protective mask during the match at Villa Park.
When questioned about Gibbs-White's condition, Forest manager Vitor Pereira stated: "It is not a question for me; it is a decision between the player and the medical department. We will have a final meeting to decide. We have a plan both with him and without him."
Murillo's Hamstring Problem
Murillo has been absent from action since sustaining a hamstring injury in Forest's victory over Burnley on April 19. His participation in Thursday's crucial encounter remains uncertain, with his availability hanging in the balance.
Both players are integral to Forest's setup. Gibbs-White has contributed an impressive 16 goals and six assists across all competitions this season. Meanwhile, Murillo and Nikola Milenkovic form the club's first-choice central defensive partnership.
Europa League Stakes
Forest are aware that avoiding defeat against Aston Villa on Thursday will secure their place in the Europa League final, building on their 1-0 advantage from the first leg at the City Ground.
Protective Gear Precedent
Wearing protective equipment is not uncommon in football. Harry Kane famously netted for Tottenham in the 2016 north London derby at White Hart Lane while sporting a mask over a broken nose. Similarly, Nigeria forward Victor Osimhen continues to wear facial protection after enduring serious facial injuries while playing for Napoli in 2021.
Such masks can occasionally prove uncomfortable and hinder performance. However, given Gibbs-White's significance to Forest, he is likely to feature if permitted, and sources indicate he is determined to play. Nevertheless, with the injury occurring only three days prior, it remains to be seen whether Forest will adopt a cautious approach.
