“Top player” – Ola Aina praises 22 G/A teammate targeted by Manchester United & Tottenham

Super Eagles defender Ola Aina has hailed his Nottingham Forest teammate Morgan Gibbs-White for his outstanding performances this season, Soccernet.ng reports.

​Nottingham Forest were expected to achieve great things this term following a busy transfer window and their unprecedented 7th-place finish in the Premier League last season. However, the club has endured a topsy-turvy campaign, though the ship appears to be steadying under the guidance of new head coach Vitor Pereira.

​Despite the team's fluctuations, a few players have remained remarkably consistent. Foremost among them is English attacking midfielder Morgan Gibbs-White. The former Wolves man has racked up 16 goals and six assists in 49 appearances this season—an impressive return for a player in his position.

​The 26-year-old’s performances have seen him consistently linked with elite English clubs such as Manchester United, Manchester City, and Tottenham. However, Gibbs-White still has two years remaining on his contract after recently signing an extension, and Nottingham Forest remain adamant against selling their talisman.

​What Ola Aina Said About Gibbs-White Ahead of Europa Clash

​Next up for Aina and Nottingham Forest is a crucial Europa League clash against domestic rivals Aston Villa. Although 11 places separate the two sides in the Premier League table, there is very little to choose between them in terms of on-paper quality.

​Ahead of the fixture, Aina spoke glowingly about the Englishman’s impact on and off the pitch.

​”He’s definitely taken a massive step forward. You see what he’s producing on the pitch and it’s amazing to see; it’s good for him and the team,” Aina said.

“Off the pitch, Morgan’s still the same Morgan—very friendly and outgoing.”

​The Nigerian international added: “Morgan has the potential to be a top, top player. I don’t want to put any pressure on him, but he’s the real deal. I love playing with him, and I know the fans enjoy watching him. He’s just a fantastic player.”

​Both Gibbs-White and Aina are expected to play pivotal roles against Aston Villa. Should Forest progress over the two legs, they will secure a spot in their first-ever European final.