It Wasn’t my Plan to Play Taiwo Awoniyi Against Arsenal – Nottingham Forest Coach Reveals

It Wasn't my Plan to Play Taiwo Awoniyi Against Arsenal – Nottingham Forest Coach Reveals

Nottingham Forest coach Nuno Espirito Santo has admitted that it wasn’t part of his initial plan to feature Taiwo Awoniyi against Arsenal after the Nigerian striker scored a consolation goal in the 2-1 defeat on Tuesday night.

It Wasn't my Plan to Play Taiwo Awoniyi Against Arsenal – Nottingham Forest Coach Reveals

Awoniyi had been out for six weeks with a groin injury, but came off the bench to score in the dying minutes of the game at the City Ground, Footballrover reports.

It was a frustrating night for Forest, who deserved more from the game after putting in so much effort into it. Unfortunately for Forest, they were undone by two clinical finishes from the Mikel Arteta’s Boys.

The first goal came in the 62nd minute when Gabriel Jesus pounced on a loose ball in the box to score.

The second goal came just nine minutes later, when Bukayo Saka tapped home after a poor clearance from Gonzalo Montiel.

ALSO READ  Taiwo Awoniyi: Forest boss updates on 'broken nose' Super Eagles star after his 'amazing job'

Awoniyi’s goal gave Forest hope in the final minutes, but it was not enough to secure them a point.

Speaking during his press conference, Forest coach admitted that having the player back was a positive, even though playing him for so many minutes after only a few training sessions wasn’t the plan.

ALSO READ  Ethan Nwaneri outshines Wilfred Ndidi as Arsenal sink Leicester in Premier League thriller

He explained that Chris Wood’s situation forced the change in plan, but ultimately it paid off as the player got minutes, scored, and worked hard.

It was not our plan to play him for so many minutes. But unfortunately, due to the situation with Chris (Wood), we decided to put him in,” Nuno Santo said.

However, the defeat leaves Forest in 14th place in the Premier League table, seven points above the relegation zone.

ALSO READ  Taiwo Awoniyi: Super Eagles star shines in FA Cup win for Forest but suffers painful injury blow

It Wasn't my Plan to Play Taiwo Awoniyi Against Arsenal – Nottingham Forest Coach Reveals

The return of the Super Eagles’ star is a boost for Forest, and they will be hoping that he can help them climb the table in the coming weeks.

Nottingham Forest’s next game:

Forest will play Bournemouth in the Premier League on Sunday, February 4th.

Like this post?
We’d be delighted to hear from you. Please leave a comment in the box below!

About the Author

Sir Kris
Staunch football fan and footballer

Be the first to comment on "It Wasn’t my Plan to Play Taiwo Awoniyi Against Arsenal – Nottingham Forest Coach Reveals"

Leave a comment