Key Stats how Nottingham Forest can not win without Taiwo Awoniyi

Super Eagles and Nottingham Forest striker Taiwo Awoniyi | Imago

Key Stats how Nottingham Forest can not win without Taiwo Awoniyi

Ayoola Kelechi 23:11 - 16.12.2023

Super Eagles star Taiwo Awoniyi's absence could cost Nottingham Forest their Premier League status according to some recent numbers

Nottingham Forest is currently experiencing a stark statistical reality, revealing a profound dependency on the striking prowess of Super Eagles star Taiwo Awoniyi.

Awoniyi's Impact on Nottingham Forest's Performance

The Nigeria international has struggled with fitness for most of the 2023/24 season and his absence from the Nottingham Forest side has exposed his incredible value to the Tricky Tees in the Premier League.

In the nine Premier League games where Taiwo Awoniyi has not been included in the starting lineup for Nottingham Forest this season, the club has failed to win even once, managing to secure only three draws while suffering six defeats (D3 L6). This statistical downturn accentuates the significant impact that Awoniyi has on the team's performance.

Nottingham Forest's Struggles Without Awoniyi

Nottingham Forest's winless streak in games where Awoniyi has not started underscores the challenges the team faces when the striker is not on the pitch. The lack of victories in these matches has become a cause for concern, especially considering the Super Eagles forward’s recent struggles with niggling injuries.

Taiwo Awoniyi and Nottingham Forest coach Steeve Cooper | Imago
Taiwo Awoniyi and Nottingham Forest coach Steeve Cooper | Imago

Since Awoniyi’s most recent setback with an injury that required surgery, Nottingham Forest have failed to win in five consecutive Premier League matches, losing four times in that run.

Nottingham Forest with Awoniyi in the Starting XI

A closer look at Nottingham Forest's points tally reveals a striking correlation between Taiwo Awoniyi's presence in the starting XI and a positive points return for the Tricky Tees.

Of the 14 points that Nottingham Forest have accumulated this season, 11 were secured when Awoniyi was part of the initial lineup.

This includes all three of Nottingham Forest's wins in the current campaign, emphasizing the pivotal role played by the Nigerian striker.

Taiwo Awoniyi's influence extends beyond mere statistics; it permeates the team's style of play, their ability to create goal-scoring opportunities, and overall cohesion on the field. 

His absence from the starting lineup appears to have a palpable effect on Nottingham Forest's ability to secure positive results.

Can Nottingham Forest survive the drop without a fit Awoniyi?

As Nottingham Forest navigates the challenges of the Premier League season, the club's management and fans alike will undoubtedly be considering strategies to cope without Awoniyi, since they find themselves dangerously close to the relegation zone as the season reaches its business end.

Whether through tactical adjustments or ensuring the striker's consistent presence in the starting lineup, addressing the team's dependence on Awoniyi may prove pivotal to their aspirations in the top-flight competition.

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