Nottingham star Awoniyi “in contention” to start against Leeds

Taiwo Awoniyi has returned to the Nottingham Forest squad after a lengthy injury layoff

Nottingham Forest boss, Steve Cooper, has revealed that Taiwo Awoniyi might start tonight’s crucial match against Leeds United.

The Welshman indicated that the Nigerian would have more opportunities to replace the worn-out players, since several players have recently returned from international duty.

Due to a groyne injury sustained during their 1-0 defeat to Southampton at Saint Mary’s Stadium, the former Union Berlin forward has been absent from Cooper’s team since January.

The Nigerian’s contribution to the club began to be felt when he progressively settled into life in the English Premier League and scored in a number of pivotal games, including the side’s victory against Southampton in January, with a single goal.

With less than 11 games left in the 2023-23 season campaign, an injury setback halted his Premier League aspirations.

Following a long injury setback, the Nigerian played for the Tricky Trees in their 1-1 draw with Wolverhampton, an important match for Cooper’s team.

After appearing for 5 minutes, Awoniyi’s manager said he would play for longer minutes as they battle relegation.

“They [Awoniyi and Cheikhou Kouyate] are in contention to start. It’s a three-game week, and some players are coming off the back of international duty as well, so there’s the knock-on effect of that,

“For sure, we have got to look at all our options in the squad.

“What’s good is that they’ve come back, and they’re big characters as well. Positive characters,” he said, as cited by Nottinghampost.

The Nigerian hopes to build on his four goals in 17 Premier League outings for Forest as they visit Elland Road this evening.