Forest hopeful of Gibbs-White fitness for Europa tie

Morgan Gibbs-White and Robert Sanchez were both taken off after the collision [Getty Images]

Morgan-Gibbs White might need a "miracle" to be ready for Nottingham Forest's Europa League semi-final second leg against Aston Villa - but his head coach Vitor Pereira is hopeful.

Gibbs-White and Chelsea goalkeeper Robert Sanchez both had to come off with their heads bandaged after they collided during Forest's 3-1 Premier League win at Stamford Bridge on Monday.

Forest, unbeaten in 10 matches in all competitions, take a 1-0 lead into Thursday's match at Villa Park.

"He has a deep cut, we will see, he is a fighter and we hope for a miracle," said Pereira.

"We'll see what happens. I really believe we can have him next game. I said to him: Don't head the ball, just play."

The midfielder posted a photo on social media on Monday night, thanking people for their messages and showing the stitches across his forehead and nose.

Sanchez also posted a photo of some stitches at the top of his head and added in reference to Gibbs-White: "Seen that you came out worst [worse] than me, hope you are OK big man."