Nottingham Forest have confirmed winger Callum Hudson-Odoi will miss the remainder of the season after undergoing surgery.
The wide man was forced off in last week’s Europa League win over Porto and was absent for Sunday’s 4-1 victory at home to Burnley. He was spotted at the City Ground using crutches at the weekend as he supported his teammates.
In a blow for Vitor Pereira’s side, Hudson-Odoi will play no further part in Forest’s battle for Premier League safety or push for European glory. The club have provided an update on his situation ahead of Friday’s crunch clash away to Sunderland (8pm kick-off).
In a statement, the Reds said: “Nottingham Forest can confirm that Callum Hudson-Odoi suffered an injury to his right quadriceps muscle in our Europa League Quarter Final fixture against FC Porto last Thursday. Following further specialist consultation, the winger has undergone surgery today and will commence his rehabilitation with our medical staff immediately. Callum is expected to return to full training during the pre-season period and everyone at the club wishes him a speedy recovery.”
After the win over Burnley, head coach Pereira had said of Hudson-Odoi: “It is a serious injury. It was very bad news for us. He had a scan and now it is trying to understand if it is possible for him to recover before the end of the season.”
Brought on as a half-time substitute against Porto last week, Hudson-Odoi lasted little more than 25 minutes. He was clearly limping by the time he left the pitch in the 72nd minute and was visibly distraught as he made way.
Hudson-Odoi has made 43 appearances and scored six goals in all competitions for the Reds this term. In his absence, Omari Hutchinson and Dilane Bakwa started on the flanks against the Clarets. Dan Ndoye is the only other natural winger in the squad but he was not involved at the weekend, although the likes of Morgan Gibbs-White and Nicolas Dominguez are capable of operating out wide.
The three points against Burnley moved Forest five points clear of the relegation zone with five games remaining. Following this week’s trip to the Stadium of Light, they have their Europa League semi-final against Aston Villa to prepare for, with the first leg taking place at the City Ground next Thursday.
Centre-back Murillo was substituted at the same time as Hudson-Odoi against Porto, having also appeared to sustain a problem. The Brazilian started against Burnley but was then forced off before half-time.
Asked about Murillo, Pereira said post-match: “I don’t know. I spoke to him and he said he thinks it is not serious. I hope.”
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