Explained: Why Gio Reyna isn't in Nottingham Forest's matchday squad for huge Liverpool clash as USMNT star's Premier League nightmare continues

The United States international has endured a miserable start to life in the Premier League since joining the relegation-threatened side on loan from Borussia Dortmund in January. He is still waiting on his first start for the club, but wasn't given a run-out when they took on Jurgen Klopp's title contenders.

Reyna was left out of the team because the 21-year-old had sustained a knock, the Athletic reports. The attacking midfielder was given a brief cameo in their last match but was then deemed unfit to play against the Reds. He is, though, expected back in training next week.

Reyna has made just four appearances for Forest in all competitions since his January move. All four of those have been as a substitute as he racked up 38 minutes in the Premier League and came off the bench late in stoppage time as they lost to Manchester United in the FA Cup.

He is in dire need of a return to first-team action as he looks to get back into contention for a place in the USMNT starting XI ahead of the Copa America this summer.

Reyna will surely be hoping that Forest's poor recent run of form will eventually lead to him getting a chance from the start. After eventually being beaten 1-0 by Liverpool, Nuno Espirito Santo's side remain just one place above the relegation zone and the USMNT midfielder will undoubtedly believe he can make a positive contribution to try and help carry the club to safety. Indeed, next up for Forest is Brighton away on March 10 but it remains to be seen if Reyna will be involved.