The Forest boss wasn’t afraid to make big decisions at Wembley, handing a surprise start to academy graduate Zach Abbott at right-back.
Not all of Espirito Santo’s selections paid off, however, with his decision to drop Anthony Elanga costing Forest dearly in the semi-final.
Ian Wright was confused by the Elanga omission, a sentiment also felt by Micah Richards and Gary Lineker.
Micah Richards and Gary Lineker question Anthony Elanga decision
Espirito Santo was questioned on the Elanga decision post-match, revealing that he didn’t necessarily regret benching the Swedish international at Wembley.
Having impressed for Forest in recent weeks, Elanga’s omission shocked supporters, something which has been echoed by Richards and Lineker.
Speaking on the Rest Is Football podcast, Richards first revealed his confusion at the decision.
“I thought Forest did well. I missed all the chat before the game, but why was Elanga not starting?
“I don’t know, he’s left him out a few games recently,” Lineker replied.
Richards then added: “I don’t know if he had a knock or whatever it may be. As soon as he came on, he changed the game. He should have scored that one earlier on at 1-0.”
Elanga will be key for Forest during crucial Premier League run-in
Nuno may not want to admit his Wembley mistake, but he certainly needs to learn from it quickly with only five games of the season remaining.
Forest currently sit outside the Champions League spots in sixth, with a game in hand on fifth-placed Chelsea.
If Forest are to achieve their European dream, they will need the likes of Elanga to be firing on all cylinders.
With this in mind, Nuno simply must put this idea of benching Elanga behind him and give the Swede the chance to provide the goods.
Will Nuno put aside his pride and recognise his mistake? We will have to wait and see.
