Nuno: We have to be careful with concussed Awoniyi

14/02/2025 12:01

Nottingham Forest head coach Nuno Espirito Santo confirmed that Taiwo Awoniyi suffered a broken nose and a concussion against Exeter City in the FA Cup fourth round on Tuesday.

The Nigeria international was making only his fifth start of the season as he continues to build up his fitness after missing a large chunk of 2023-24 through injury.

Awoniyi had put the Tricky Trees 2-1 up in the 37th minute at St James Park, but he required lengthy treatment on the pitch following a collision with Grecians goalkeeper Joe Whitworth in second-half stoppage time.

The 27-year-old striker was eventually replaced by Chris Wood, who scored in the shootout as Nuno’s side won 4-2 on penalties to progress to the fifth round.

Nuno revealed ahead of Forest’s Premier League clash with Fulham on Saturday that they have to tread carefully with Awoniyi due to concussion protocols.

“He broke his nose, so he is in pain and is with the medical department,” the Portuguese tactician said. “We are waiting for the right protocols to be followed.

“It is a concussion, so we have to be really careful He looks OK. He is smiling but with pain.”