Yohan Benalouane has returned from suspension ahead of Tuesday evening’s meeting with West Bromwich Albion. The Nottingham Forest defender picked up a red card against Birmingham City on February 2 which caused him to miss Saturday’s 2-1 win over Brentford, but he could get the nod from Martin O’Neill to start against the Baggies.
Benalouane had been a regular for the Reds since his loan move from Leicester City in January, making three Championship appearances. He’s operated alongside Jack Robinson at the heart of the defence, with Ben Osborn and Saidy Janko at left-back and right-back respectively. The 31-year-old has struggled with indiscipline, however, picking up bookings in every Forest appearance so far.
With Michael Hefele ruled out for the season while Michael Dawson and Tobias Figueiredo are not expected back until March, O’Neill is short on options at centre-back. Deadline day signings Molla Wague and Alexander Milosevic could start against the Baggies in their stead, but Benalouane will also be in contention.
Victory for the Reds could see them go within two points of the Championship playoffs.
