Despite his uncertain future, striker Taiwo Awoniyi is expected to play an important role for Nottingham Forest for the rest of the season.
Head coach Nuno Espirito Santo is “absolutely” confident the Reds’ front man can regain top form and will not be distracted by transfer rumours. However, he acknowledges Awoniyi needs game time in order to hit the kind of levels he has shown previously as he continues to find himself largely restricted to a substitutes’ role.
There is some question that the Nigeria international would still be at the City Ground at the end of the January transfer season, as West Ham United are interested in him. Nuno refused to comment on any of the rumours surrounding Sunday’s game against Southampton (2pm kick-off), but he did say he believes Awoniyi can perform at the Garibaldi.
When asked about suggestions that the 27-year-old could leave in January, Nuno responded: “Taiwo came on late in the game (against Liverpool), having done very well the previous game against Luton.
“We hope he improves his fitness level since we know the talent and quality he possesses. He is a goalscorer.
“He always has an impact, he always has chances. This is what you can say about Taiwo. Is there something I don’t know? “There are rumors?”
Chris Wood’s form has hampered Awoniyi’s hopes of returning to the starting XI. He started in last weekend’s FA Cup win over the Hatters before coming off the bench for Tuesday night’s 1-1 draw with Premier League leaders Liverpool.
Awoniyi has been catching up on his fitness and sharpness after missing a piece of preseason. He scored his first goal of the season in a 3-0 win over Wolverhampton Wanderers earlier this month, and Nuno feels he can regain the goalscoring flair he demonstrated during his debut season at Trentside, when he scored 11.
“He can absolutely return (to his previous level). Yes, absolutely. “Because he demonstrates it every day,” Nuno explained.
“He works really hard, and we must not overlook Taiwo’s value to Forest and the history of his contributions to the club. I had the opportunity to watch many of Taiwo’s games, and his performance was excellent. I am convinced he will get back to it.
“It’s fitness, confidence, and another component – minutes on the field, since Chris is playing so well. Taiwo knows this and is humble enough to understand that he must wait for his chance.
“His moment (right now) will not be when he starts, but when he comes on in the game. He scored against the Wolves to end the game, which is what we expect from T.
“He must be prepared, whether he is involved from minute one or minute 90. The other component is mentality. I am confident he is completely focused and devoted to the club.
