Coventry City manager Frank Lampard has explained why he believes Super Eagles striker Taiwo Awoniyi could prove to be a key signing for the Sky Blues this Premier League campaign, Footynaija.com reports.
Awoniyi completed a permanent move from Nottingham Forest earlier this week, ending a four-year spell at the City Ground to join the newly promoted side in a deal reportedly worth £9 million.
The Nigerian forward arrives at the CBS Arena with plenty of Premier League experience after scoring 23 goals in 103 appearances for Forest across all competitions. He also links up with fellow Super Eagles midfielder Frank Onyeka at Coventry.
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Lampard admitted Awoniyi was one of the strikers he always dreaded facing during his time in the Premier League and is delighted to now have the 29-year-old leading his attack.
“In terms of Taiwo (Awoniyi), we know him from what he’s done at Nottingham Forest and I always thought he was a threat as an opponent,” Lampard said, per quotes on Complete Sports.
“There is a reason why Taiwo left Nottingham Forest and come to us. We really like him and hope he’s going to be great for us.
“Probably he is frustrated with game time. I like a pla
yer that is hungry to play and get his minutes. We have to look after him and prepare him, but I like a player that wanted to be the man and play more minutes.”
Awoniyi found himself behind Chris Wood and Igor Jesus in Forest’s pecking order last season, limiting his opportunities despite remaining a popular figure among supporters.
The move now offers the Nigerian striker a fresh opportunity to rediscover his best form and establish himself as Coventry’s first-choice center-forward.
With Lampard placing his faith in him, Awoniyi will be eager to repay that confidence as Coventry begin life back in the Premier League with a crunch opening day clash against reigning champions Arsenal.
