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Nigerian striker Taiwo Awoniyi has earned a major award to close out one of the most difficult seasons of his career
Super Eagles star Taiwo Awoniyi’s 2024/25 has been full of major struggles, including a recent life-threatening injury, but the Nottingham Forest striker has ended the campaign with a major win.
After staring down a problematic season, the Nigerian striker has now been named Nottingham Forest’s PFA Community Champion of the year.
Awoniyi ends season on a high despite many lows
The award, presented annually by the Professional Footballers’ Association, honours players who go beyond the pitch to impact lives positively, and Awoniyi fits that bill perfectly.
Despite undergoing emergency abdominal surgery earlier this month following a horrific collision during a match against Leicester City, the Super Eagles forward still found time and energy to serve his community.
Placed in a coma after rupturing his intestine against Leicester City, Awoniyi’s road to recovery was nothing short of miraculous.
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Many feared for his life, but through sheer determination, faith, and medical intervention, he pulled through.
Throughout the season, Awoniyi continued supporting local causes, showing up for community events, and remaining a source of inspiration for both fans and residents around Nottingham.
Awoniyi returns from hospital to thank fans for support
After being discharged from the hospital, Awoniyi returned to the City Ground before Forest’s final match of the season against Chelsea.
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Flashing his signature smile, Awoniyi received a hero’s welcome from the fans who had been sending their support to the Nigerian striker while he was hospitalised.
Reflecting on his ordeal, Awoniyi said, “This season has been one of the most difficult of my career… but I am grateful to still be here, to still be fighting.”
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Now, with the PFA Community Champion award in hand, Awoniyi has proven that true greatness isn’t only measured in goals, but in impact off the pith as well.
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