Nottingham Forest head coach Nuno Espirito Santo says he remains concerned about Taiwo Awoniyi’s condition following a serious abdominal injury, but remains hopeful the Nigerian striker could return for the club’s final game of the season next weekend.
Awoniyi was rushed to the hospital on Monday and underwent “urgent” surgery after colliding with the goalpost during Forest’s 2-2 draw with Leicester City on Sunday.
The 26-year-old was placed in an induced coma to stabilise his recovery by limiting movement and regulating his heart rate. The second phase of his surgery was scheduled for Wednesday.
Read Also: Taiwo Awoniyi’s injury ignites debate over offside rule and player safety
“He went to surgery, the surgery went well, thank God,” Nuno told reporters at his pre-match press conference on Friday.
“He is under observation now, but recovering. We still have to wait for doctors to allow visits beyond his immediate family. His family are there with him. We are concerned, but the signs are positive.”
The incident has had a profound effect on the squad, with Nuno admitting the severity of the injury has taken an emotional toll on everyone at the club.
“It’s been very difficult on us, on the team, because of the seriousness of the situation. He has to remain under observation for at least five days to ensure everything goes smoothly.”
Despite finishing the match on the pitch, Awoniyi was visibly struggling after the collision. Forest could not substitute him as they had exhausted their allotted windows for changes. The severity of the injury only became fully apparent after the match.
Following the final whistle, Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis entered the pitch and expressed his anger at the coaching and medical staff for allowing Awoniyi to continue. The club later clarified in a statement that Marinakis’ frustration stemmed from seeing Awoniyi in visible pain and not from the result.
“If I could change anything, it would be to act faster; if we had known the seriousness, we would’ve called an ambulance immediately. But at that moment, none of us knew,” Nuno admitted.
“He’s in good hands now. I’ll try to visit him as soon as possible. His family is there, which is most important.”
The team has remained in close contact with Awoniyi through group chats, according to Nuno, who praised the forward’s character.
“He’s a wonderful boy, and this season has been so tough on him. We hope he can join us next week, not necessarily to play, but just to be around the team. That would mean a lot to all of us.”
With two games remaining, seventh-placed Forest are still in contention for a Champions League spot. They travel to face West Ham in East London on Sunday before their final match of the season.
“Now we must focus on the task ahead. We are still fighting for something huge,” Nuno concluded.
