Nottingham Forest lineup vs. Aston Villa: Predicted XI for Premier League clash as Nuno faces defensive dilemma

Nottingham Forest head coach Nuno Espirito Santo is facing a defensive dilemma for Saturday's Premier League showdown with Aston Villa at Villa Park.

The Tricky Trees managed to get the better of Manchester United by a goal to nil in midweek, but neither Chris Wood (hip) nor Callum Hudson-Odoi (personal) were available for the win.

In addition, Ola Aina was withdrawn in the first half with a calf injury, one that could hardly have come at a less opportune time given that Villa loanee Alex Moreno is ineligible for this encounter.

Neco Williams is at least a viable alternative at right-back, but Santo must choose between the seldom-seen Harry Toffolo and Morato - a centre-back by trade - to step in at left-back for the absent Aina.

The latter will likely be given the nod to join Williams, Murillo and Nikola Milenkovic in that scenario, while Nicolas Dominguez is primed to return in the engine room alongside Elliot Anderson as Ryan Yates makes way.

Hudson-Odoi will at least be fine to return on Saturday and should demote Danilo down to the substitutes' bench, but it is still not clear whether Wood will be given the green light.

However, Taiwo Awoniyi is a competent alternative to the New Zealander in the final third, where Morgan Gibbs-White and the midweek match-winner Anthony Elanga will also operate.

Nottingham Forest possible starting lineup: Sels; Williams, Milenkovic, Murillo, Morato; Dominguez, Anderson; Elanga, Gibbs-White, Hudson-Odoi; Awoniyi

> Click here to see how Aston Villa could line up for this match