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Tricky Tees manager Nuno Espirito Santo revealed why he could not count on the Super Eagles forward in their first pre-season match
Nigerian striker Taiwo Awoniyi was notably absent from Nottingham Forest’s pre-season victory over Chesterfield, which saw the Tricky Trees win 3-0.
Head coach Nuno Espirito Santo clarified the reason why he could not count on the Super Eagles forward for the start of pre-season.
Nottingham Forest reveal latest Awoniyi injury
According to Nuno, Awoniyi missed the game due to personal reasons and a slight knock picked up during the first week back at the Nigel Doughty Academy. Despite these setbacks, Awoniyi is expected to join the team for their upcoming training camp in Spain as they gear up for the new Premier League season.
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Awoniyi’s absence is a concern for Nottingham Forest, especially given his history of injury issues since joining the club. Last season, the Nigerian forward was sidelined due to groin surgery and a thigh problem, hampering his ability to contribute consistently.
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The Portuguese manager emphasised the significance of a full pre-season for Awoniyi, stating, “He had a problem in the first training session of the week. Let’s see how long it takes. It was something in his calf. Unfortunately not [for today]. Hopefully, he doesn’t miss too much of pre-season. For all of them, it [pre-season] is important, and more so for Taiwo.”
Nottingham Forest win without Awoniyi
Despite Awoniyi’s absence, Nottingham Forest secured a comfortable win over Chesterfield. Goals from Chris Wood, Josh Bowler, and Ibrahim Sangare ensured a 3-0 victory at the SMH Group Stadium.
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Nuno took the opportunity to field new signings Carlos Miguel, Elliot Anderson, and Eric da Silva Moreira, providing them valuable game time ahead of the season. Forest’s pre-season schedule includes three friendlies in Spain against Sunderland, Millwall, and Elche at the Pinatar Arena.
Following these matches, they will face Villarreal at the City Ground and Evangelos Marinakis-owned Olympiacos in Greece. Their Premier League campaign kicks off with an opening fixture against Bournemouth on August 17.
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