Nottingham Forest beat Spurs 2-1 on Monday night to end the run of two successive Premier League defeats, but Jota was nowhere to be seen in the Forest squad.
When asked about this, Nuno Espirito Santo was blunt about leaving Jota out, which was slightly surprising for Forest fans as he had started the previous week’s defeat to Everton.
Jota impressed against Everton, but not enough for the Forest manager to select him. However, the winger’s latest comments ahead of the FA Cup semi-final against Manchester City suggest that he is rather content with how his City Ground career is panning out.
Jota Silva on his role in the Nottingham Forest squad
Clearly a valued member of the squad, Murillo named Jota as his unsung hero this season because of how hard he works on the training ground to earn his opportunities.
Speaking to the Shut Up and Show More Football podcast, Jota discussed the work he puts in and whether being snubbed by Espirito Santo has impacted his time at the club.
Jota said: “If the coach says he needs me for 90 minutes, I play. If he needs me for five minutes, I try for five minutes, try to impact the game and bring energy from the bench. For me, the most important thing is to help the team and do my job.”
An admirable attitude to have, Forest fans will be particularly impressed by Jota for remaining positive despite missing out on opportunities.
One opportunity that may come his way is in Sunday’s FA Cup semi-final, a competition he expressed a particular fondness for.
Playing at Wembley will fulfil a ‘dream’ for Jota Silva
The Portuguese winger played a significant role in the earlier rounds of the FA Cup, assisting Ramon Sosa’s goal against Luton Town.
Michael Dawson was impressed with Jota in that Luton clash, but he has failed to have a similar impact in the competition since. This hasn’t impacted his love for the FA Cup, though.
Jota continued: “For me to play here in the Premier League and FA Cup is a dream. You have the Champions League and Premier League, FA Cup, every cup in this country is so special. We believe in ourselves and our work, and we can improve every day.
On playing at Wembley, he added: “This is a dream for any kid and any person playing football. I will go to the game to enjoy, with responsibility, but to enjoy.”
Enjoyment will be the central focus for Reds fans travelling down to London, so it’s nice to hear that Jota and the Forest squad will try to enjoy the occasion as well.
