Is Gonzalo Montiel’s injury a blow for Nottingham Forest?

Gonzalo Montiel, a right-back, may suffer an injury that could be fatal for Nottingham Forest.

During the first half of Argentina’s 2-0 victory over Peru on Tuesday, the 26-year-old had to be replaced.

Just before Lionel Messi gave La Albiceleste the lead in Lima, Montiel seemed to identify the issue. He then gestured to the bench to be replaced by Lucas Martinez Quarta.

According to the Argentine publication El Intra, Montiel will undergo testing this week when he returns to Nottingham due to a muscular problem.

Given Forest’s current injury issues, manager Steve Cooper will be hoping to get Montiel back in time for Saturday’s visit by Luton Town to the City Ground.

Many of the issues are in defence, particularly as Montiel might be forced to replace fellow right-backs Serge Aurier and Ola Aina on the sidelines.

Before the international break, during the trip to Crystal Palace, Aurier was substituted at halftime by Montiel because the Ivorian was having trouble with a groin issue.

Moussa Niakhate, who was sent off late in their previous match at Selhurst Park, will miss Luton’s visit due to injury, and Felipe is also out.

While Neco Williams should be back to full fitness after playing in both of Wales’ games during the break, Nuno Tavares might be getting closer to making a comeback.

When Tavares sustained an injury last month while playing Manchester City at the Etihad, Montiel was the player who took Tavares’ position.

The Argentine made his first competitive appearance for his country since earning the World Cup final penalty, and his only two starts for Forest were against Burnley at home in the league and cup.

 

Even though Montiel had to go back from South America, he would have been expected to start against Luton; but, considering the extent of the injury and the lack of a timeline, that seems doubtful.