Nottingham Forest manager Vitor Pereira faced the media on Friday, offering a candid update on the team's injury woes and their mindset ahead of a crucial Premier League clash with Newcastle United at the City Ground on Sunday (kick-off 14:00 BST).

In a significant blow, Pereira confirmed that winger Callum Hudson-Odoi will miss the remainder of the season. The boss also revealed he hopes to receive clarity later Friday on whether key players Ola Aina, Murillo, or Morgan Gibbs-White could be available for the final fixtures.

Forest's growing injury list has clearly tested the squad's depth. "I hope that we don't have another injury because this is difficult, to compete at this level," Pereira said, highlighting the relentless schedule. "Three days after three days after three days, losing players and losing players."

After the emotional disappointment of their Europa League semi-final exit, Pereira stressed the need for resilience. "We need to come back fighting," he stated, emphasizing that Sunday's match is "a very important game in the battle of relegation."

Reflecting on the defeat to Aston Villa, the manager was measured but honest. "We needed everyone in condition to compete. If we have everyone, I believe we have the conditions to compete with them. It was not possible. I cannot complain about my players, they tried. The players that started the game, they tried everything."

Acknowledging the mental toll, Pereira noted Friday "will be difficult" as the squad processes the loss, but added it's "a day to recharge" before refocusing on the league.

Looking ahead to the Newcastle fixture, he underlined its importance: "It's a day to come back again with our supporters — playing at home — and to try our best to get points and to finish the situation of the Premier League."

With the relegation battle heating up, every point is precious. For Forest fans, the message is clear: the fight isn't over yet.