Super Eagles striker Taiwo Awoniyi believes Nottingham Forest’s preparations for the new season are already laying the foundation for success after playing a starring role in Wednesday’s 3-0 pre-season victory over Blackburn Rovers, Footynaija.com reports.
Awoniyi came off the bench to captain Forest in the second half of the game and made an immediate impact. After Igor Jesus had given the Reds a first-half lead, the Nigerian forward set up Arnaud Kalimuendo for Forest’s second before getting on the scoresheet himself, calmly converting Eric da Silva Moreira’s cross to wrap up the win.
Reflecting on his goal after the match, the 28-year-old admitted he was pleased to continue building momentum ahead of the new campaign.
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“It feels good and that’s what the preseason is all about, getting the rhythm, ready for the season, and getting goals,” Awoniyi told Forest TV after the game.
“It is very hot but at the end of the day, preseason is all about getting fit and getting the minutes. I think we all know this and the goal is just to be ready before the first game and everyone knows it and we just keep going.
“For me, I always say this, the games we win in the season start from now. This is where you get the bits done because when the season starts, there might be less minutes to do the runs and this is where the winning mentality starts. If you go in to achieve anything, you start from here.”
Taiwo Awiniyi’s resurgence continues
Awoniyi’s encouraging display comes after two injury-hit seasons in which he battled back from a life-threatening abdominal injury to re-establish himself as one of Forest’s most effective attacking options.
Now fully fit under new head coach Oliver Glasner, the Nigerian has already contributed a goal and an assist across the club’s opening two pre-season fixtures while wearing the captain’s armband in both second halves.
Looking ahead, Awoniyi praised the atmosphere within the squad as Forest continue their preparations for the new season.
“It’s been great with everyone, the coaching staff, nutritionist, and medical staff everyone has been helpful. I think it has been great and fun to be together again and getting to understand each other.
“The game on Sunday is all about getting the necessary minutes and everyone to be ready and ready for the season,” he concluded as Forest turn their attention to Sunday’s behind closed doors friendly against Vitoria S.C.
