Forest manager Espirito Santo dismisses Taiwo Awoniyi exit rumours

Nottingham Forest manager Nuno Espirito Santo has quashed speculations about a potential January exit for Super Eagles striker Taiwo Awoniyi.

The former Liverpool forward has struggled to secure a starting role in Forest’s impressive Premier League campaign. With Forest flying high, Awoniyi has had to settle for limited minutes, often playing second fiddle to in-form striker Chris Wood. Despite his reduced playing time, the Nigerian forward has reportedly attracted interest from clubs, including Graham Potter’s West Ham United.

Addressing the rumours, Espirito Santo denied any plans to part ways with Awoniyi and praised the striker’s contributions.

“Taiwo came on late in the game [against Liverpool], having played very well in the previous game against Luton. We hope that he progresses with his fitness level because we know the talent and the quality he has. He is a goalscorer. He always has an impact, he always has chances. That is what you can say about Taiwo. Is there something I do not know? Are there rumours?” the Portuguese coach said, as quoted by the Nottingham Post.

Espirito Santo emphasised Awoniyi’s importance to the club and expressed confidence in his ability to return to top form.

“He 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. I was fortunate enough to see many of the games that Taiwo was involved in, and his performance level was very high. I am absolutely confident that he will get back to that.”

The Forest boss also highlighted Awoniyi’s commitment and mental resilience, noting the competition within the squad.

“It is fitness, it is confidence, and it is another factor – which is minutes on the pitch because Chris [Wood] is doing very well. Taiwo recognizes that and is humble enough to know that he has to wait for his moment.

“His moment [currently] is not going to be when he starts; it is going to be when he comes on in the game. He scored against Wolves to close down the game, and that is what we want from Taiwo. He has to be ready, whether it is minute one or minute 90 that he is involved. The other part is mentality. I am sure he is focused and committed to the club.”