Nottingham Forest striker Taiwo Awoniyi suffered a concussion and a broken nose during his team’s FA Cup fourth-round victory over Exeter City on Tuesday night. Forest manager Nuno Espirito Santo confirmed the injury after the match.
The Nigerian forward, who had earlier scored his team’s second goal, was involved in a heavy collision inside the penalty area. The impact left him needing medical attention on the pitch for an extended period before he was stretchered off.
“It was a concussion and I think he broke his nose,” Nuno told Nottingham Post after the game.
“He is in a lot of pain but has a smile on his face because he did an amazing job and scored for us, which we were delighted about. He has already been checked and is OK to travel (back).”
Awoniyi’s injury is another setback in what has been a difficult season for the 27-year-old. He has struggled for regular playing time, featuring in only 248 minutes of Premier League action across two starts and 17 substitute appearances.
Last month, the Nigerian striker finally ended a 324-day goal drought when he scored in Forest’s 3-0 victory over Wolves. That goal had raised hopes of a return to form, especially after his promising debut season, where he scored 10 goals and provided one assist in 27 games.
Before his latest injury, Nuno had expressed confidence in Awoniyi’s ability to regain top form despite his limited appearances.
“Taiwo can absolutely get back (to that previous level). Yes, absolutely, because he shows it every day. He works very hard and we cannot forget the importance of Taiwo to Forest and the history of what he has done for the club,” the Portuguese coach said.
