Despite the recent dismissal of Liam Rosenior, Chelsea’s fortunes showed no sign of improvement as they slumped to a sixth consecutive league defeat for the first time in more than three decades.

The Blues were beaten 3-1 at Stamford Bridge by a side currently in the bottom five, with their opponents fielding a largely rotated squad as they prioritised an upcoming Europa League semifinal clash against Aston Villa.

Awoniyi was the standout performer, scoring twice and winning a penalty on his milestone 100th appearance in all competitions for Nottingham Forest.

The Nigeria international gave Forest a blistering start, putting them ahead just 98 seconds into the contest before Igor Jesus converted from the spot in the 15th minute after Awoniyi was brought down by Malo Gusto inside the box.

Seven minutes into the second half, Awoniyi struck again, tapping in a Morgan Gibbs-White cross to extend Forest's lead. 

João Pedro pulled one back for Chelsea in stoppage time, but it proved only a consolation.

Reflecting on the performance, the 2013 Fifa U17 World Cup winner praised Forest’s intent from the outset and highlighted the unity within the squad.

Awoniyi told Sky Sports, via the BBC: "Football is a team game, everyone needs to be ready and it's not about everyone starting it's about the team.

"We came here with the mentality to win, good ball from [Dilane] Bakwa [for his goal] as well and the way we started the game, we had more of the ball, brilliant from the team.

"Kudos to the manager and the staff - not only the people on the ground but the nutritionists, physio. It's all about the team and looking forward to the next game. I believe it could be an amazing season for us."

Chelsea have become Awoniyi's favourite Premier League opponent, with the forward now registering four goals in six appearances against the Blues. 

He has also scored three goals each against Arsenal, Southampton and West Ham United.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel