Nottingham Forest head coach Nuno Espirito Santo has revealed the extent of injury to Nigerian striker Taiwo Awoniyi, confirming that the 27-year-old suffered a broken nose and a concussion against Exeter City in the FA Cup fourth round on Tuesday.
The Nigeria international was making just his fifth start of the season as he continues to build up his fitness after missing a large part of the 2023-24 season through injury.
Awoniyi shot Forest ahead 2-1 in the 37th minute at St James Park, but he required lengthy treatment on the pitch following a collision with Exeter City goalkeeper Joe Whitworth in second-half stoppage time.
The Super Eagles striker was ultimately replaced by Chris Wood, who scored in the shootout as Nuno’s side won 4-2 on penalties to progress to the fifth round of the competition.
Nuno revealed ahead of Forest’s Premier League clash with Fulham on Saturday that they have to tread carefully with Awoniyi’s injury due to concussion protocols.
“He broke his nose, so he is in pain and is with the medical department,” the Portuguese tactician said. “We are waiting for the right protocols to be followed."
“It is a concussion, so we have to be really careful He looks OK. He is smiling but with pain," Espirito Santo said in pre-match press conference.
Nottingham Forest are on the heels of Arsenal, seated 3rd on the league table on 47 points, three behind the Gunners and ten adrift of leaders Liverpool after 24 matches.
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