‘I’m grateful to be here’, says Forest striker Awoniyi

After having surgery on a serious abdominal injury, Nottingham Forest striker Taiwo Awoniyi says he is “grateful to still be here.”

After being taken to the hospital, the 27-year-old suffered severe injuries when he collided with Leicester’s post while attempting to cross Anthony Elanga.

Awoniyi underwent emergency surgery on Wednesday evening, and medical staff is now monitoring his progress.

After scoring in the crucial 2-1 victory over West Ham on Sunday, Forest team-mate Morgan Gibbs-White waved a shirt with the name of the Nigerian forward in it.

Awoniyi’s name and number are printed on the back of T-shirts, as well as the front-line “we are all with you Taiwo,” to make things even more cozy for Nuno Espirito Santo’s side.

And Awoniyi wrote on Instagram, “I have felt the love through it all, even though this season has been one of my most challenging career years.” I’m grateful that I’m still here, fighting, smiling, and in good spirits thanks to God’s grace.

Thank you for your well wishes. Seeing you all at the hospital made my spirits stronger than words can express.

“I’m with you every step of the way, and I’m looking forward to getting back out there with the boys and doing what I love.”