Credit: Imago

Evan Lloyd

Fri 10 April 2026 14:15, UK

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Zach Abbott made just his 11th senior appearance for Nottingham Forest on Thursday as they drew 1-1 with FC Porto in the Europa League quarter-final.

The defender played the full 120 minutes as Vitor Pereira’s side secured their progression past FC Midtjylland last month, and he has continued to prove his readiness.

His manager has continued to keep him out in the Premier League, however, with the 19-year-old not even making the bench as Nottingham Forest beat Tottenham before the break.

But after Abbott’s fine performance on Thursday, Pereira may have second thoughts about his team for the visit of Aston Villa on Sunday.

Nottingham Forest’s season could still end in disaster, but the emergence of a player like Abbott will provide confidence for the future regardless of what happens.

Zach Abbott’s impressive stats vs FC Porto

Former PGMOL chief Keith Hackett exclusively told Football Insider on Friday that Igor Jesus’ goal should have stood, which would have seen Nottingham Forest go into the second leg with a lead.

The Premier League side will likely feel fortunate to have come away with anything to show for their visit, considering the onslaught they faced in the first half.

Stefan Ortega was forced into several saves, and the back-three of Abbott, Murillo and Morato were called into action frequently.

Starting in the centre of the three, it was a tall ask for the 19-year-old to perform in a fiery European atmosphere.

But he did exactly that, completing two tackles, one as the last man, five clearances and four recoveries.

Abbott remained calm on the ball, completing the majority of his passes, and he was strong in the duel, winning half of those he contested.

Save for a couple of moments which saw the England youth international struggle with long balls, Nottingham Forest can be extremely excited by his development.

Abbott development to open door for summer departure

There is no shortage of centre-backs at the City Ground, and Abbott’s development has seen him emerge among the first-choice options.

Murillo is the highlight and will attract interest this summer, although Nottingham Forest are not prepared to sanction his sale.

Nikola Milenkovic has been largely omnipresent for the Tricky Trees this season and is also expected to stay, while question marks remain elsewhere.

Willy Boly will depart on a free transfer this summer, and he could well be joined by one of Jair Cunha or Morato.

Neither player has managed to convince this season in their limited time on the pitch, although Cunha has spent almost the entirety on the injury table.