English Premier League
Dyche signals bigger role for Awoniyi as Nottingham Forest battle goalscoring woes
By Oluwadamilola Olaleye
Sean Dyche has hinted that Nigerian striker Taiwo Awoniyi could play a more prominent role as Nottingham Forest seek to resolve their ongoing struggles in front of goal.
Since Dyche’s appointment last month, Forest have found consistency hard to come by, scoring just four times in their last four Premier League outings. Both Awoniyi and French forward Arnauld Kalimuendo have also been hampered by fitness concerns after limited playing time earlier in the season.
Awoniyi was unavailable for Forest’s midweek Europa League draw against Sturm Graz, but Dyche suggested the 27-year-old’s physicality and presence in the box could be key ahead of this weekend’s clash with Leeds United.
“We’ve got the three players — Taiwo Awoniyi, Omari Hutchinson and Jair Cunha — who are not part of the Europa League group. That’s challenging in itself,” Dyche said.
“Taiwo is slightly different. He’s been around a bit longer. He can hold the ball up and get into the box, but we need to deliver quality service. Against Bournemouth, we got into great areas to cross yet hardly put any balls in.”
Dyche, who took over amid Forest’s third managerial change in quick succession, emphasized the importance of balance as he works to rebuild sharpness and understanding within the squad.
“The outcome is important — these are big, important games,” he added. “At the same time, you’re trying to get people fit, sharp, and understanding what’s required.”
With Forest desperate for goals and short on attacking fluency, Awoniyi’s return could provide a timely lift as Dyche looks to reignite the club’s campaign.
