Awoniyi returns to City Ground for Chelsea match after freak injury

Taiwo Awoniyi is back on his feet after undergoing an emergency abdominal surgery and was in attendance for their final game of the season against Chelsea.

With Champions League qualification on the line, Forest host Enzo Maresca’s Blues, needing a victory to confirm their place in next season’s showpiece.

Ahead of the game was a wholesome moment at the City Ground, with Awoniyi returning for the first time since his incident. He was clad in a Canadian tuxedo and wore a bright smile as he waved happily to the fans in attendance.

As Pulse Sports reported, the Super Eagles striker ruptured his intestine after clattering his midriff against the woodwork on duty for the Tricky Trees.

He underwent emergency surgery, during which he was placed in a coma—a period of distress and worry with fans all around sending their love and prayers.

Awoniyi recovered on schedule and sent a message out to the football community. “This season has been one of the most difficult of my career but through it all, I have felt the love.”

“With the grace of God, I am grateful to still be here, to still be fighting, to still be smiling, and to be in good spirits.”

“To my family, friends and football fans, thank you for the support, and to everyone back home in Nigeria who has checked in on me, prayed for me and left kind words, thank you. I see them. I feel them. And I carry them with me every day as I recover.”