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Head coach Steve Cooper believes that increased competition for places as injured players return to fitness may give Nottingham Forest an advantage in the matchup.

The Reds have had to deal with a significant number of casualties throughout this season, presenting an additional challenge in their battle for Premier League survival. However, several of those who have been on the sidelines for long periods are about to return.

Ryan Yates is among those who have been out of action for a period due to illness. He came off the bench in the last two games and played 60 minutes for the Under-21s earlier this week, a test he passed well.

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Meanwhile, Moussa Niakhate was in the squad for the match against Tottenham Hotspur for the first time since August and Cheikhou Kouyate joined training. The likes of Taiwo Awoniyi and Dean Henderson are expected not to be too far away from returning after the international break.

“It went well,” Cooper said of Yates’ start Monday. “It was part of his return to the game process that he had to go through.

“Yatesy loved playing for 21! He couldn’t wait to go play and was even more excited when he got back.

“That was the next stage of his return to the Premier League. It’s on the way.

“It’s been a little bit of a different situation. We’re honoring that process, so let’s keep going until he’s absolutely ready to go for us.”

“One good thing about some of the guys coming back to training is that there’s a lot of fire in the stomachs of a lot of the players, because they want a chance or they can feel somebody behind them ready to take their jersey off.” I think that’s good,” Cooper added.

Cooper has not ruled out Brennan Johnson being available to face Newcastle United on Friday night after picking up a groin strain against Spurs, although the Wales international is “unlikely” to turn up. Backup goalkeeper Wayne Hennessey is expected to be available after he was forced to come off the bench last weekend with a knee problem.

What impact have injuries had on Forest’s season? Give your opinion in the comments below

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