Another potential injury blow as Nottingham Forest man hobbles off in QPR defeat

Aitor Karanka may have suffered another injury to his defence after Tobias Figueiredo hobbled off in Nottingham Forest’s 1-0 defeat to Queens Park Rangers. The 24-year-old had only just returned from a three-match suspension but could be absent for another extended period after being hooked off in the 74^th minute.

After a lengthy stoppage, Michael Hefele eventually replaced the Portuguese centre-back and may be required to start alongside Jack Robinson at the heart of the defence against Norwich City on December 26. Michael Dawson is still out of action too and Karanka already has two of his back four operating in makeshift roles.

Prior to coming off with a knock, Figueiredo had made one interception, four clearances and 60 passes (83% completion ratio). It wasn’t a vintage performance from the centre-back but his return has been long-awaited. It’s unknown how long his latest problem will keep him out for, however, but they’ll be hoping it’s nothing serious.

Figueiredo was a regular alongside Dawson prior to his suspension and could be key in Forest’s push for promotion this season. Saturday afternoon’s defeat to QPR leaves the Reds three points off the playoffs.

Crippy Cooke’s previous article