The defender is currently on loan from Arsenal, which Forest faces in the Premier League on Sunday (AEDT), but has struggled for game time this season.

Zinchenko has featured in just five league games and three UEFA Europa League matches, while he was also replaced at half-time in an FA Cup third-round defeat to Wrexham.

The Ukraine international’s future was called into further doubt after Ola Aina, who has recovered from injury, replaced him in Forest’s UEFA Europa League squad.

Dyche confirmed that he has held conversations with the 29-year-old but did not disclose whether he would be staying or leaving.

“We have spoken to the player and made it clear in his situation,” said Dyche. “He is aware of that, so we will see what happens.

“We are being very open with him. He is a thorough professional, he has been, and I am sure he will be going forward, no matter what.”

After a goalless draw against Liverpool last time out in the league, Arsenal has regained some momentum with victories over Portsmouth and Chelsea in the FA Cup and Carabao Cup respectively.

Martin Zubimendi was on target in their win at Stamford Bridge; he has scored two goals across his past five games for Arsenal, as many strikes as in his first 23 appearances for the Gunners.

Mikel Arteta praised the Spaniard’s performance against the Blues, while comparing him to fellow midfielder Declan Rice.

“Well, I think when we talk about Zubi, it’s what else can he do? He can do whatever he wants, it's a bit similar to Declan's qualities,” Arteta said.

“We just have to keep unlocking that in his system, in his brain, because he's so good at occupying different spaces, carrying the ball, dribbling, winning duels, and he has a talent when he gets into the final set and into the box.

“He's so composed; he sees the picture very clearly.”