Nottingham Forest: Chris Wood is ready for his Forest return after six months out of injury

Wood’s best goal of last season underscored his importance to Forest.

They have scored 58 goals in the league – an average of 1.42 goals per game, with Wood providing 34.8% of them. This season, they have scored 31 goals in 31 league games – an average of one per game – and Wood scored just twice on the opening day.

Since arriving at the City Ground in January 2023, Wood has started 67 games for Forest, winning 25 times, and 59 matches without winning 15 times.

Forest’s winning percentage starting with him is 37.3% with a points per game rate of 1.4, while it is 25.4% without him with a points per game rate of 1.0.

He returns with Forest as they fight to reach the European semi-finals for the first time in 42 years, while also fighting to stay in the Premier League.

Forest is three points away from the relegation zone with seven matches remaining after its important victory over Tottenham last month.

“The priority is to win the next match and the next match will be tomorrow. The Europa League is very important and it is very important to keep the club in the Premier League,” Pereira said.

“I need to find the balance between the two competitions. This is the only way, the only way to compete tomorrow and again in three days against Aston Villa.

“Players must feel important and that they have the necessary qualities and conditions to compete and help the club at this moment.”