Aina points way forward at Forest after new deal

Ola Aina's new deal highlights Nottingham Forest's commitment to maintaining their momentum in the aim of becoming a force again.

Discussions have been ongoing for a while and the full-back, who played an important role in helping Forest finish seventh last season, is the latest key man to sign fresh terms.

Nuno Espirito Santo has stressed in the past that keeping his squad together was the most important thing - rather than bringing in an influx of new signings - and Forest have been working on doing that.

They have already tied down Wood, Murillo and Neco Williams this year while Nuno himself signed a new three-year deal last month.

Forest do not want to sell Newcastle target Anthony Elanga - although every player has his price - as they prepare to return to European football for the first time since 1995-96.

The unity was evident last season in a tight-knit squad and Aina is just the next piece of the puzzle in Forest's long-term desire to compete at the top.

There is a clear belief for many in the squad that the City Ground is the right place and this deal will only help convince others - like Morgan Gibbs-White - that Forest is somewhere they can find success.