Pereira hails Nottingham Forest star and his team’s ‘spirit’ after beating Aston Villa | OneFootball

Nottingham Forest boss Vitor Pereira hailed striker Chris Wood and his team’s spirit after beating Aston Villa 1-0 in the first leg of their Europa League semi-final.

Wood scored the only goal of the game from the penalty spot after a handball by Lucas Digne.

The New Zealand international only returned to action earlier this month after missing the majority of the season with a knee injury and Pereira hailed his impact.

“Chris Wood is not only a top player but he’s a player that has the spirit, the experience,” Pereira said. “He gives us a lot and we are in a good moment with a good spirit.”

Pereira also praised the way that the whole of his squad have contributed to Forest’s recent good run.

“We changed the players but we did not change the spirit to compete,” Pereira said.

“It’s only half time and I know we will face another tough game. But one thing I am sure is that we go there to compete again, not to defend, but to win the game.

“Everyone is ready to compete and help the team at this moment which makes me proud.”