Taiwo Awoniyi demands winning mentality as Nottingham Forest striker fires warning ahead of new season

Taiwo Awoniyi has challenged Nottingham Forest to build a strong winning mentality during pre-season after helping the Reds begin their preparations with a convincing 3-0 victory over Blackburn Rovers.

The Nigeria international was among the scorers as Forest continued their build-up ahead of the new Premier League campaign, finding the net after Arnaud Kalimuendo had extended their lead in the Algarve.

For Awoniyi, the friendly win was more than just another warm-up fixture. The striker believes the habits developed during pre-season will shape Forest’s ambitions when competitive football returns.

“It feels good, that’s what pre-season is all about; getting the rhythm going and getting ready for the season, and of course getting the goals,” Awoniyi told the club website.

The forward, who has been working his way back into full sharpness, highlighted the importance of using the pre-season period to regain fitness, build chemistry and establish the standards required for the challenges ahead.

Awoniyi embraces leadership role at Forest

Awoniyi has also shown signs of increased responsibility within the Forest squad, wearing the captain’s armband during the second half of the club’s final two pre-season matches.

The 28-year-old’s influence has extended beyond his attacking contributions, with the striker keen to help create a mentality capable of pushing the team towards greater achievements.

“It was hot but, as I said, pre-season is all about getting fitness and getting the minutes. We all know this and the goal is to be ready for the first game, so we need to keep it going,” he added.

Forest are entering the new campaign with renewed expectations, and Awoniyi believes the foundation for success must be established before the pressure of league competition begins.

According to the striker, the intensity and mindset shown during friendly matches can determine how prepared the squad will be once the season starts.

“The games we want during the season start now, this is where you get all the bits done, because when the season starts you will have less time to do the running. This is where your winning mentality starts. If we’re going to achieve anything it starts from here,” Awoniyi said.

Forest striker focused on being ready for Premier League return

Awoniyi also expressed his delight at reconnecting with his teammates after spending time away from the group, insisting that rebuilding understanding within the squad is a key part of pre-season.

The striker has been an important figure for Forest since joining the club and will be expected to play a significant role as they aim for another competitive Premier League campaign.

“It’s been great to be back with everyone again and getting an understanding of everyone again,” he said.

With preparations continuing, Awoniyi remains focused on reaching peak condition before Forest’s opening league fixture. He believes every training session and pre-season game provides an opportunity to improve before the real tests arrive.

“Sunday is about getting the minutes in the body again and being ready for the season,” he concluded.

The Nigerian’s latest performance will boost his confidence as Forest look to enter the new campaign with momentum, fitness and the winning mentality he believes will be crucial to their ambitions.