Nottingham Forest full-back Ola Aina has displayed remarkable resilience in the face of adversity. The club’s recent appeal against a four-point deduction for breaching Financial Fair Play regulations was rejected, but Aina remains laser-focused on the bigger picture: securing Premier League survival for the newly promoted side.
The deduction, stemming from Forest exceeding Profitability and Sustainability Rules (PSR) by a staggering £34.5 million, cast a shadow over their historic return to the top flight. Aina, however, refuses to let the off-field drama derail their on-field ambitions.
“Honestly, I’m not really bothered about it,” Aina declared in a recent interview with BBC Sport. “Our focus has always been on the same thing: getting points on the board, no matter what.”
This unwavering commitment reflects the spirit that has propelled Forest back to the Premier League after a 23-year absence. Aina, a key component of Steve Cooper’s tactical setup, embodies the belief that their fate rests on their own performances, not external factors.
“There’s definitely an element of relief in having some clarity before the season ends,” Aina conceded. “But to be honest, the whole situation wasn’t a major talking point amongst the players. We were focused on what we could control—winning games.”
This unwavering focus on controllable aspects separates Forest’s mentality from some of the fallen giants of the Premier League. Aina’s leadership, both vocally and through his on-field performances, is a cornerstone of this positive attitude.
The deduction undoubtedly placed Forest in a precarious position. With the relegation battle reaching a fever pitch, every point counts. However, Aina emphasizes the empowering feeling of having their destiny back in their own hands.
“Now it feels like everything is in our control,” Aina asserted. “We can take charge of our situation. We know we need points, and we’re determined to go out and get them.
Aina’s confidence is not unfounded. Forest has displayed flashes of brilliance throughout the season. Their attacking prowess, spearheaded by the in-form Brennan Johnson, has troubled even the most established teams. Defensively, Aina’s solidity and pace have been crucial in keeping them afloat.
While the deduction undeniably presents an obstacle, it could also serve as a galvanizing force for the newly promoted side. Aina highlights the potential upside of this adversity.
“There’s a sense of togetherness within the squad,” Aina explained. “We feel like we’re all in this fight together. This situation has, in a way, brought us closer.”
This newfound unity could be the catalyst that propels Forest towards Premier League survival. Aina’s unwavering belief in his teammates and the team’s strategy is infectious, inspiring confidence throughout the City Ground.
The upcoming fixtures will be a true test of Forest’s resolve. Key clashes against relegation rivals loom large, and Aina acknowledges the importance of maintaining their current form.
“We can’t afford to take any game lightly,” Aina cautioned. Every match is a cup final for us now. We need to maintain the same level of intensity and focus that we’ve shown in recent weeks.
Aina’s leadership and unwavering focus on the pitch serve as a beacon of hope for Nottingham Forest fans across Nigeria and beyond. While the point deduction casts a long shadow, the spirit within the forest camp remains undimmed. With Aina at the forefront, Forest is determined to rewrite their destiny on their own terms.
