Nottingham Forest striker Taiwo Awoniyi has expressed deep gratitude after surviving a life-threatening injury sustained during a match against Leicester City. The 27-year-old was seriously hurt after colliding with the goalpost while attempting to convert a cross from Anthony Elanga.

Awoniyi was rushed to the hospital and placed in an induced coma before undergoing emergency abdominal surgery. He regained consciousness on Wednesday evening and remains under close medical observation.

In an emotional message, the Nigerian forward reflected on his ordeal and thanked the club and its supporters for their unwavering support.

“This season has been one of the most difficult of my career, but through it all, I’ve felt the love. By God’s grace, I’m thankful to still be here, to still be smiling, and to be in good spirits,” he said.
“To my teammates, coaches, staff, and the entire Forest family — your visits and well wishes have meant the world. I can’t wait to be back on the pitch doing what I love.”

Forest showed their support in a moving tribute during Sunday’s 2-1 win over West Ham United. Players warmed up in shirts bearing Awoniyi’s name and number, along with the message: “We are all with you Taiwo.” After scoring the opening goal, Morgan Gibbs-White held up a shirt honoring his teammate.

The victory boosted Forest’s hopes of European qualification. They now sit seventh in the Premier League, just one point behind fourth-placed Chelsea and fifth-placed Aston Villa. With one match remaining — a decisive clash at home against Chelsea — Forest remains firmly in the hunt for a Champions League spot.