- Forest boss Nuno Espirito Santo has confirmed Awoniyi’s availability, stating that he had passed the required medical checks
- Despite being cleared to play, Awoniyi is still adjusting to the protective mask but is expected to feature in the match
- Nottingham Forest is pushing for a top-four finish, making this fixture against Newcastle a key test for their ambitions
Premier League side Nottingham Forest has received a timely boost ahead of their crucial clash against Newcastle United, as striker Taiwo Awoniyi has been cleared to return to action.
The Nigerian forward, who missed last weekend’s defeat at Fulham due to concussion protocols, has now been given the green light to play on Sunday, February 23. However, he will have to wear a protective mask as he continues his recovery from a facial injury sustained in the FA Cup.
Forest head coach Nuno Espirito Santo confirmed Awoniyi’s availability during his pre-match press conference.
Speaking to the media, he reassured fans that the 27-year-old had successfully passed the necessary medical checks and was fit to take part in the upcoming fixture,
"Yes, yes, it is clear on the concussion protocol, he is available. He will have to wear a mask, but he is available," Espirito Santo stated,
Awoniyi suffered the injury after a nasty collision during Forest’s FA Cup victory over Exeter City. The impact forced him off the pitch, with medical staff immediately assessing his condition. Although he was initially ruled out of the following game against Fulham as a precautionary measure, he has since made sufficient progress in his recovery.
Despite being cleared to play, the forward is still adjusting to the protective mask he must wear. Espirito Santo admitted that Awoniyi was still getting used to it but expressed confidence in his ability to adapt,
"He is trying to get used to it," the manager stated.
The return of Awoniyi comes at a crucial time for Nottingham Forest as they continue their push for a top-four finish. Since joining the club from Union Berlin in 2022, he has played a key role in the team’s attacking setup, scoring vital goals to help secure their Premier League status last season.
Espirito Santo will now have more attacking options as Forest prepare to face Eddie Howe’s Newcastle side, who have been strong at home this season. The manager also confirmed that there were no fresh injury concerns within the squad, allowing him to field a strong lineup for the encounter.
Forest fans will be eager to see if Awoniyi can make an immediate impact, even with the added challenge of playing with a mask.
“I’m just happy I got one today,” Nigeria’s Aina elated after helping Forest beat Brentford
Previously, TheRadar reported that Nigerian full-back Ola Aina shone once again as his early strike set Nottingham Forest on course for a stunning 2-0 victory over Brentford at the Brentford Community Stadium on Saturday, December 21.
The win marked Forest’s third consecutive victory, pushing them momentarily to fourth place in the Premier League table, just two points below Arsenal.
