Nottingham Forest forward Taiwo Awoniyi required immediate surgical intervention for an abdominal injury. The injury occurred after a forceful collision with the goalpost during the recent match against Leicester.
Despite receiving several minutes of medical attention following the severe impact late in Sunday`s 2-2 Premier League draw, the striker returned to continue playing.
However, it was only on Monday that medical staff determined the full extent of the damage.
Subsequently, the 27-year-old Nigerian international was transported to the hospital for an operation.
The conclusion of the derby was overshadowed by a confrontation on the pitch between Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis and manager Nuno Espirito Santo.
Reports later indicated that Awoniyi`s condition was a central point of contention in that tense discussion.
Marinakis expressed his anger regarding the choice to allow the striker back into the game.
Awoniyi did manage to rejoin the match after receiving treatment and even saw it through to the end.
Nevertheless, he had shown clear signs of distress after stretching to reach a cross from Anthony Elanga, resulting in him sliding into the base of the post.
Post-match, Nuno attributed the decision allowing Awoniyi to continue to a “misunderstanding”.
He commented: “It was disappointing for everyone involved.”
“Regrettably, we had to complete the final 10 minutes effectively a player down. Taiwo made an effort, but the pain prevented him from truly performing at his best and assisting the team.”
“There was a communication breakdown between the coaching staff and the medical team. We were prepared to make a substitution, but Taiwo attempted to play on and found he couldn`t [move properly].”
Nuno also added: “Naturally, we feel disappointment and frustration. Yet, it`s the owner`s passion that drives our growth as a club.”
“He motivates us. He demands improvement… 30,000 spectators felt the same frustration. Many of them would surely have wanted to run onto the pitch and express their feelings. We are deeply indebted to the Marinakis family.”
Marinakis downplayed the confrontation, emphasizing the club`s focus on securing European football qualification.
However, he acknowledged: “Everyone – the coaching staff, players, supporters, and myself included – shared frustration regarding Taiwo`s injury and the medical staff`s incorrect assessment of his fitness to continue the match.”
“This reaction is understandable. It exemplifies the deep passion we hold for our club. Let us all remain thankful, passionate, and keep aspiring!”
