‘This is where I want to be’ - Awoniyi speaks on his future, rules out move away from Forest

The Super Eagles star was on the scoresheet for Forest in their 2-0 victory over West Ham United on Sunday.

Awoniyi secured the three points at the City Ground, capping a swift counter-attack with a composed solo finish. 

The strike was a significant moment for the Super Eagles forward, marking his first Premier League goal in over a year. 

A difficult period plagued by injuries and inconsistent form had limited his playing time, leading to reports of a potential departure from the club.

Rumors had linked Awoniyi with a return to the German Bundesliga, with former clubs Mainz and Werder Bremen reportedly interested during the winter transfer window. 

However, the striker has made his intentions clear. "I have always believed this is where I want to be. 

“I have always believed I am a Premier League player, no matter what's going on around me," Awoniyi told Forest TV after the match.

He credited manager Nuno Espírito Santo for helping him regain his confidence, explaining that his recent goal drought was largely due to a lack of consistent minutes on the pitch.

"That's my focus," he continued. "Unfortunately, what I have been through over the last one-and-a-half years, I have not been playing a lot and I have not been involved. 

“The coach came in and he brought me back, and this is something I am happy about. Getting the goal today is something I am happy about."

"I have not been playing for a while as well, and maybe that's why the goal is not there," he admitted.