Fulham to be without first-team player for Nottingham Forest clash as injury update emerges

Fulham will be without Tom Cairney for their home clash against Nottingham Forest this weekend. The midfielder limped off against Sunderland in the FA Cup last time out and isn’t fit to face Steve Cooper’s side.

He has sustained an ankle injury and it is yet to be known how long he could potentially be out for at this stage. The 32-year-old impressed for the Cottagers on Wednesday night and helped them beat the Black Cats 3-2 to reach the fifth round of the FA Cup.

Cairney, who has played for Hull City and Blackburn Rovers in the past, hasn’t been a regular starter under Marco Silva this term but is a useful player in their squad. He has made 26 appearances in all competitions and is their most used substitute.

His absence against Forest is a blow but on a more positive note for Fulham, fellow midfielder Harrison Reed is fit to play. He has formed a great partnership in the middle of the park with Joao Palhinha and has recovered from the niggle he picked up at the Stadium of Light.

Elsewhere, new signings Sasa Lukic and Cedric Soares are also available to play. They both provide competition for places. Reed has delivered his verdict on the new arrivals and has told the club website: “Two really good additions. I know Cédric from our time at Southampton, I don’t know Saša too much but from what I’ve seen in training he seems really smart and looks a really good addition, someone who can help the team.”