Nottingham Forest manager Nuno Espirito Santo has defended the club’s medical team following the decision to allow striker Taiwo Awoniyi to continue playing after a collision with the goalpost during their 2-2 draw with Leicester City. Awoniyi suffered a serious abdominal injury in the incident, which occurred late in the match, and required urgent surgery after the game. Despite receiving treatment on the pitch, he returned to play but was visibly struggling.
Awoniyi was taken to hospital on the Monday following the match and underwent two operations to repair internal damage. He was placed in an induced coma as part of his treatment but has since been taken out of it and is recovering well under medical supervision. Nuno acknowledged the difficulty and speed with which medical decisions must be made during matches, emphasizing that the welfare of players is always the top priority for the medical staff and the club.
Ahead of Forest’s upcoming Premier League match against West Ham United, the team plans to pay tribute to Awoniyi, who has faced numerous setbacks this season. Nuno described the emotional impact of Awoniyi’s injury on the squad and stressed the importance of giving players time and space to process the situation before focusing on the game. The club will honor Awoniyi with tributes such as commemorative t-shirts during the match.
Forest remain in contention for a Champions League spot but must win their remaining games and rely on other results. Nuno expressed that the team’s motivation to secure victory is partly driven by their desire to support Awoniyi and the many fans who care deeply about the club.
In summary, Nuno Espirito Santo stands firmly behind the medical staff’s handling of Awoniyi’s injury, highlighting the professionalism and priority given to player health, while the club prepares to show solidarity with the striker in their forthcoming matches.