Coventry City captain Matt Grimes has praised Frank Onyeka as a high quality player, highlighting the midfielder’s impact during a crucial phase of the club's campaign.

In search of adequate playing opportunities, the Nigeria international joined the Sky Blues on loan in the winter transfer market, with an obligation to buy should the club achieve promotion to the Premier League included in the deal.

Frank Lampard's side, who had been enduring a dip in form prior to the arrival of Onyeka, have suffered just one defeat in the fourteen matches in which the midfielder was included in the matchday squad, recording nine victories in that period.

The Super Eagles star played a key role as Coventry City returned to the Premier League with three games to spare, before going on to clinch the Championship title four days ago.

Reflecting on Onyeka's contribution, Matt Grimes emphasised how the Brentford loanee helped stabilise the squad during a dip in form, bringing both experience and energy to the team.

"When we went through a little bit of a mid-season blip in form, when you can bring someone in that has got so much experience, and such a high quality player, it gives the whole place a big boost," Grimes said at the pre-match press conference before Sunday's clash with Wrexham. 

"He's been fantastic. You've seen his performances and the energy he gives everyone. He has been a really big part of it."

Onyeka has earned a nomination for Coventry City's Goal of the Season following his outstanding strike against Derby County on matchday 40. 

The Nigerian faces strong competition for the accolade, going up against Victor Torp, Brandon Thomas-Asante, Ephron Mason-Clark, Ellis Simms, Josh Eccles, Jack Rudoni, Matt Grimes and Bobby Thomas.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel