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Liverpoolvs.Nott'm Forest

sportsmole.co.uk, 12 September 2024, 14:31
Nottingham Forest head coach Nuno Espirito Santo has suggested that Morato and James Ward-Prowse are in contention to make their debuts against Liverpool.

The East Midlands outfit will be pleased with their start to the new Premier League campaign, accumulating five points from games against Bournemouth, Southampton and Wolverhampton Wanderers.

As a result, the foundations have been laid for a season which they hope will see them remain clear of the relegation zone, unlike in the past two years.

Forest had already enjoyed a productive summer transfer window before they finalised deals for Morato and Ward-Prowse on deadline day.

Versatile defender Morato has arrived from Benfica, while midfielder Ward-Prowse has made the switch from West Ham United.

Nuno comments on new signings

Neither of the pair came into the equation for the most recent fixture against Wolves on August 31 before the September international break.

However, speaking to reporters ahead of the trip to Anfield on Saturday, Nuno revealed that they had done everything possible to be included in the squad this weekend.

The Portuguese said: "I think they have adapted well to the group. The group have received them very well. They are totally integrated and enjoying their football, preparing themselves for the chance when it comes.

"It is up to us but in terms of adaptation, really well. Easier for James, of course. Morato, like all the players that have joined us, the squad has received them really well."

Expanding on Ward-Prowse, Nuno added: "He is different. His experience and quality, his talent, his knowledge of the game. I think honestly he can help us a lot."

Are places on the substitutes' bench inevitable?

Having put together an unbeaten run to start 2024-25, Nuno will not be in any rush to tinker with his starting lineup unless he has to.

Players who have been on international duty will continue to be assessed, but Willy Boly and Danilo are the only players to feature on the injury list at present.

Ward-Prowse has the best chance of an immediate start, yet preference is likely to go to Elliot Anderson given the former Newcastle United man's impressive start to life at the City Ground.

The only other alternative is Morgan Gibbs-White switching to the flank to accommodate Ward-Prowse, with either Anthony Elanga or Callum Hudson-Odoi dropping out.

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