Chris Hughton has confirmed that it looks likely Joe Lolley will be missing for the rest of the season after picking up a hamstring injury in the match against Reading. The winger pulled up midway through the first half and it looks like his season has finished early.
Hughton said: "It is the worst news for him, we knew afterwards because of the way that he pulled up that it was a hamstring tear, it was just to what degree. We are still determining that and he will see a specialist to see the extent of it. He will be out for a good period of time so that is bad news.
"There is every chance that it could be the end of his season, we always try to be as optimistic as possible but it is starting looking that way. It is disappointing for us but mostly for Joe. He was having a good period in the game in a season that has been up and down for him. You are always thinking that it could turn and it would be a good end of the season for him so it is disappointing and frustrating for us but mostly for him.
"Joe accepts that his season has been stop-start and that was arguably as good as I have seen Joe this season, while everybody at the club and the supporters know what he can do. It is a big blow but he will have to get his mind focused on recovering, getting himself fit and looking forward to next season."
Joe Worrall is also set for a spell on the sidelines through injury but it creates opportunities for other players to step into their spot in the team, while Lewis Grabban is available again having returned to the pitch on the weekend.
"There is competition and these are the moments that you are grateful for the squad you have got, particularly in those areas and there may be other areas that would be tougher with the options that we have got," Hughton said.
"What we continue to tell the players is that whatever the circumstances, if you are in the team because of your good form, because somebody is injured or for rotation, you have to take that opportunity whenever you can.
"There was no reaction for Lewis and it is really good to have him back and it speaks about the options that we have. For us now to have three number nine options all fit and available is pleasing for anyone who starts but it also strengthens our bench as well which is important."
Harry Arter has had a minor setback in his recovery after being withdrawn early in the Under 23s' match on Monday as a precaution, while Fouad Bachirou is in line to return to training next week.
Opposition team news
Norwich have no fresh injury concerns ahead of their visit to The City Ground. Head coach Daniel Farke said there were a few tired legs after their clash with Sheffield Wedneday on Sunday but he expects to have the same players available for selection.
Adam Idah is due to undergo surgery on a hernia, while Michael McGovern and former Forest loanee Sam Byram remain long-term absentees.