Taiwo Awoniyi has been ruled out of action after sustaining a hamstring injury, Nottingham Forest manager Nuno Espirito Santo has confirmed.
The Nigerian forward picked up the injury during Forest’s 1-0 victory over Manchester United at the City Ground earlier in the week and was consequently absent from the squad that lost 2-1 to Aston Villa on Saturday evening.
Speaking after the match at Villa Park, Santo provided an update on Awoniyi’s condition but admitted the timeline for his return remains unclear.
“I don’t know when they’ll be back. It’s going to be day by day. Taiwo Awoniyi felt something in his hamstring,” he said.
The setback is a fresh blow to Forest, who are already managing the absence of striker Chris Wood.
The New Zealand international is also sidelined with a hip issue sustained during international duty.
Awoniyi’s injury further complicates selection options for Santo at a time when Forest are pushing to maintain their place near the top of the Premier League table.
Despite the weekend loss to Villa, Forest currently sit third, though their lead over the chasing pack has narrowed.
The 26-year-old has been a key figure in Forest’s campaign so far, known for his physical presence, movement off the ball, and ability to find the back of the net.
His absence will leave a notable void in Forest’s attack as they prepare for a challenging run of fixtures in the coming weeks.
Forest’s manager is now faced with the task of reshuffling his forward line as the club awaits further medical assessments on both Awoniyi and Wood.
With the crucial stages of the season approaching, the club’s medical team will be under pressure to facilitate a swift but cautious recovery for both players.
Although Santo refrained from providing a definitive timeframe for Awoniyi’s return, the day-by-day approach suggests the club is proceeding with care to avoid aggravating the injury.
For now, Forest will be forced to navigate the Premier League without one of their most influential attacking players.
As the season enters a decisive phase, the club’s depth will be tested—and Forest fans will hope their injured forwards can return in time to aid the team’s push for European qualification.
