AliousNottingham Forest must rediscover their winning touch if they are to keep their Champions League ambitions alive.
Despite a controversial VAR decision in their 4-3 defeat to Newcastle, Forest were ultimately their own worst enemies, conceding four goals in just 11 minutes.
A pivotal moment came when Peter Bankes asked Jarred Gillet to review Ola Aina’s handball with the score at 2-1—yet Forest fans will remember a similar incident against Wolves in January that didn’t go their way.
Now, a crucial clash against Arsenal awaits on Wednesday at the City Ground, and the timing couldn’t be better for Forest winger Anthony Elanga.
Arsenal’s recent 1-0 home defeat to West Ham has already dented their confidence, and a key suspension for the Gunners could play right into Elanga’s hands.
Arsenal’s Left-Back Dilemma Hands Elanga a Golden Opportunity
Myles Lewis-Skelly has been a breakout star for Arsenal this season, making the left-back spot his own with his pace and energy.
However, his disciplinary record is becoming a concern—after picking up his second red card in just 18 appearances, he will be unavailable for the Forest game.
This could be a game-changer for Elanga, who thrives on exploiting defensive weaknesses.
The former Manchester United winger, who has openly claimed to be the fastest player in the Premier League, will now face a makeshift left-back instead of one of Arsenal’s quickest defenders.
Struggling Arsenal Star in Line to Face Elanga
When Lewis-Skelly was sent off against West Ham, Arsenal turned to Riccardo Calafiori at left-back—a move that backfired.
The Standard rated his performance a dismal 4/10, noting how he was repeatedly exposed down the flank.
If Calafiori starts against Forest, Elanga could have a field day.
Another option for Mikel Arteta is Jurrien Timber, but the Dutchman is still working his way back from injury.
While he has pace, he might not yet be at full match sharpness—something Elanga can exploit with his relentless energy and direct running.
With Arsenal already struggling to find a fit centre-forward, this may not be the Gunners’ strongest lineup. Losing Lewis-Skelly only adds to their woes, while giving Elanga the perfect stage to wreak havoc and inspire Forest to a vital win.
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