'There's a little line you can't cross' – Ex-Chelsea youth coach calls out Ola Aina for off-pitch antics

Former Chelsea youth coach Jody Morris has urged Super Eagles and Nottingham Forest full-back Ola Aina to exercise caution in his post-match celebrations, following an exuberant display after Forest's commanding 3-0 victory over West Ham at the City Ground on Saturday, November 2.

The Nigerian international capped the victory with a stunning goal and celebrated enthusiastically in the dressing room alongside his teammates. 

A video later surfaced of Aina jokingly stating that Forest had sent the Hammers back to East London where they belong.

Morris, speaking on Rio Ferdinand Presents, expressed admiration for Aina's talent but warned about the potential pitfalls of such remarks.

"I know Ola, was a great kid, and he's a personality as well, but when you talk about sending teams back to where they come from is where you got to be careful. There's a little line there you can't cross," Michaelson said.

He added: "I don't think you ever want to limit people's personality because that's what they are. Physically, he's an absolute specimen, he can play with his right and left foot. 

"He's a lovely footballer and he can probably impose himself on games a little bit better, especially with what he has in his locker. 

"It's always nice to see people you've had an affinity or relationships with do well, I'm happy to see him do well."

Aina has been instrumental to Nottingham Forest's success this season, featuring in all 11 Premier League games and contributing to the team's current fifth-place position.

Beyond his club duties, Aina also played a key role for Nigeria in their recent 1-1 draw against Benin in Abidjan, a result that secured the Super Eagles' qualification for the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. 

The 28-year-old was substituted after 82 minutes for Bright Osayi-Samuel.

The Super Eagles are set to face Rwanda on Monday, November 18, 2024, in Uyo for their final match of the 2025 AFCON qualifying campaign.

Adeyemi Adewale

Copyright ANS
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from allnigeriasoccer.com