Nottingham Forest boss provides update on Awoniyi after striker's withdrawal from Ghana, Mali games 

Nottingham Forest boss Nuno Espirito Santos has provided an update on the fitness status of the Super Eagles forward Taiwo Awoniyi.

The 2013 FIFA U17 World Cup winner missed Forest's Premier League clash with Luton Town before the international break and that also made him withdraw from the Super Eagles squad that faced Mali and Ghana in back-to-back friendly matches played over the past week.

The 26-year-old has been unlucky with his fitness all season which has also had a telling influence on his performance for the club and availability for Nigeria, missing the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations because of the same.

He just recovered from a groin injury and his game time has had to be managed, starting just four for his last seven Premier League but that hasn't prevented him from getting injured yet again.

Speaking during his pre-match conference before Nottingham Forest clashed with Crystal Palace, Santos gave an insight on Awoniyi's latest fitness setback.

In quotes relayed by NottinghamshireLive, the Portuguese tactician said: "It is a big blow for us because he had just come back (from injury). The importance of Taiwo is huge. He gives us another option.

"I don't know exactly how long he will be out for but I am positive we are going to see him again this season. He will definitely miss these two games."

Besides missing the game against the Eagles at the City ground on Saturday, the Nigeria international would also be missing the visit of Alex Iwobi and Calvin Bassey's Fulham next Tuesday. 

Abdulkareem Abdulhamid

Copyright ANS
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from allnigeriasoccer.com