Aurier, Worrall, Kouyate - Nottingham Forest predicted…

Aurier, Worrall, Kouyate - Nottingham Forest predicted XI for crucial Brentford clash

After ending a long winless run, Nottingham Forest’s next challenge is to back that up when they head to Brentford this weekend.

The Reds came from behind to beat Brighton and Hove Albion 3-1 at the City Ground on Wednesday night. It brought an end to a streak of 11 games without a victory and lifted them out of the relegation zone.

Head coach Steve Cooper immediately stressed that his thoughts were already turning to Saturday’s clash and how his team can build on a vital three points. And he faces some big selection calls for the trip to the capital.

Forest suffered more injury woe in midweek, with Moussa Niakhate and Neco Williams forced off. If they are without both against the Bees, it could mean a return to a four-man defence.

Cooper was already short on centre-backs prior to Niakhate suffering a hamstring problem. Serge Aurier had got the nod to start ahead of Joe Worrall in a back three against Albion, but with Williams ruled out, he will likely revert to the flank. With Scott McKenna sidelined for the rest of the season and Willy Boly struggling to be fit before the end of May, that could leave Worrall and Felipe as the only two fit central defenders.

There is a decision to be made in midfield, however. The combination of Orel Mangala and Danilo worked well last time out, but it could be that an extra man is needed at the Gtech Community Stadium.

Having Cheikhou Kouyate available again is a big boost. He came off the bench on the banks of the Trent and might be in line to start as Forest try to turn around their poor away form. Remo Freuler also provides an option, having been an unused substitute, while it remains to be seen whether Jonjo Shelvey comes back into the fold.

Brennan Johnson was back in the line-up on Wednesday, having been left out of the XI against Liverpool. It wasn’t his night in front of goal on his 100th appearance for the club, but he more than contributed to the hosts’ success. The Reds could switch to a 4-3-3 this weekend, with Johnson and Morgan Gibbs-White flanking Taiwo Awoniyi.

Predicted Forest XI: Navas; Aurier, Worrall, Felipe, Lodi; Mangala, Danilo, Kouyate; Johnson, Awoniyi, Gibbs-White.

How should Forest line up against Brentford? Have your say in the comments below

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