The return of centre-back Moussa Niakhate has prompted an excited reaction from Nottingham Forest fans ahead of Friday’s Premier League clash against Newcastle United.
The centre-back has been out of action since August with a hamstring injury, having impressed on his two appearances for the club since signing from Bundesliga side Mainz in the summer.
The 27-year-old returned to the matchday squad for the weekend’s defeat against Spurs at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. He was, though, an unused substitute as Forest lost the game 3-1.
Niakhate could now make his comeback when Forest take on Newcastle at the City Ground on Friday night. Ahead of the game, the player has posted a message on social media. A 15-second video showing the defender in action and undergoing rehabilitation teases "Niakhate’s return" on his YouTube channel at 6pm on Wednesday night.
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Along with the video, the defender simply writes: “Glad to be back! See you tomorrow on my YouTube channel.” The message prompted a response from Forest fans with many welcoming the player back to action.
Among the messages was fellow defender Giulian Biancone, who himself is currently undergoing rehabilitation after suffering a serious knee injury. The right-back replied with three raised hands emojis.
Here’s a look a some of the other messages sent to the returning defender on social media.
Julie : Brilliant news. Great to have you back. We've missed you.
James : Impeccable timing, we needed this.
Jimmy : You have been missed sir!!!
James Ablett : Niakhate and Boly at the heart of defence will be amazing.
Riley : We’re finally gonna get to see the Lodi, Niakhate, Felipe, Aurier backline.
Walksbythsea : Brilliant, so excited to see you play again!
How big of a boost will Niakahte's return be? Tell us in the comments section
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