The Digest:
Nottingham Forest and Super Eagles defender Ola Aina has been named in the BBC's Premier League Team of the Week for his standout performance in a 2-0 away victory over Brentford. The selection, curated by former Watford captain Troy Deeney, praised Aina's all-around display. Deeney highlighted the defender's excellent far-post defending against Brentford's crossing threat, his composure in one-on-one situations, and his significant contributions in attack. The win also featured a goal from Aina's Nigerian teammate, Taiwo Awoniyi. Aina missed the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations due to injury.
Key Points:
- The inclusion recognizes Aina's pivotal role in a crucial clean-sheet victory for Nottingham Forest, underscoring his importance to the team.
- Deeney's specific analysis validates Aina's technical defensive qualities and his modern role as an attacking full-back.
- The accolade highlights the consistent high-level performances of Nigerian players in the Premier League, even outside the spotlight of major tournaments.
- Aina's absence from AFCON 2025 due to injury is contextualized by this recognition, reminding fans of the quality missed by the national team.
- The joint success with teammate Taiwo Awoniyi showcases the positive impact of Nigerian players within their club sides.
Sources: BBC Sport, Premier League
