Super Eagles striker Taiwo Awoniyi has claimed Nottingham Forest's Swizzels Sweetest Strike for January (Goal of the Month), following his brilliant solo goal in the 2-0 win over Brentford.

  Awoniyi doubled Forest's advantage in the encounter after Igor Jesus had given the visitors an early first-half lead at the Gtech Community Stadium. 

The Nigerian international produced a moment of individual quality after collecting a pass from England midfielder Morgan Gibbs-White, driving confidently into the Brentford penalty area before firing a low finish beyond goalkeeper Caoimhín Kelleher.

The strike was selected from seven nominated goals to claim the monthly accolade and marked Awoniyi's first goal of the season, ending a difficult start to the campaign.

The 28-year-old has endured a challenging period, managing just eight Premier League appearances  and one goal so far, with a total of 204 minutes played across those outings. 

His struggles also led to his omission from Nottingham Forest's UEFA Europa League squad, as former manager Nuno Espírito Santo opted for alternative attacking options.

Awoniyi will now be hoping the individual recognition serves as a turning point, as he looks to build on the award-winning goal, regain confidence, and rediscover his best form for the club for the remainder of the season.

Adeyemi Adewale