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Nottingham Forest produce a battling, determined display on Saturday to earn a 0-0 draw with Preston North End at Deepdale Stadium.
Martin O’Neill can be proud of his side, but may be rueing a few missed chances to snatch a victory. At the back, though, the Reds were solid throughout. At the heart of this sturdy resistance was centre-back Yohan Benalouane.
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The 31-year-old only arrived at the City Ground in the January transfer window from Premier League outfit Leicester City. He has settled in well at Forest and demonstrated his understanding with his defensive partners on Saturday.
The 5-cap Tunisia international already looks to have struck up a solid relationship with fellow centre-back Alexander Milosevic, the effectiveness of which was in evidence at Deepdale.
Benalouane demonstrated his experience and authority against the Lilywhites, and played a vital role in preserving Forest’s clean sheet. According to WhoScored’s stats, he used his 6’1” frame to great effect, winning seven aerial duels. He also contributed two tackles, two interceptions and seven clearances to his team’s cause.
However, on the ball, Benalouane’s game left plenty to be desired. All too often his distribution was found wanting. His pass accuracy rating of 57% meant that pressure was allowed to build on the Reds’ defence as he persistently gave the ball away.
This lack of quality in possession is a key weakness in Benalouane’s game that must be addressed. If he can improve in this regard though then his game will take on a fresh dimension, and he’ll be the complete defender that Forest need.
