Arijanet Muric started for Kosovo against the Czech Republic on September 7, but it’s unlikely his performance has given Sabri Lamouchi a selection headache ahead of Nottingham Forest’s meeting with Swansea City. The 20-year-old has fallen down the pecking order to Brice Samba and showed signs of rustiness for the national team.
Muric fumbled a cross during the game and had to be bailed out by a goalline clearance. His error could have cost Kosovo the game and is exactly why Lamouchi has preferred Samba between the sticks. The Manchester City loanee looked unconvincing in goal for Forest and doesn’t seem to have recovered based on his latest showing.
Samba has been resolute in goal since taking over from Muric. The former SM Caen stopper has made four appearances in all competitions, conceding just two goals and keeping two clean sheets. He was on Forest’s bench against Leeds United (August 10), Birmingham City (August 17) and Charlton Athletic (August 21) before being given an opportunity.
Until Samba gives Lamouchi a reason to distrust him, he’s likely to stay in the starting lineup for Forest. The reds next face Swansea on September 14.
