Steve Cooper has revealed that forward Taiwo Awoniyi will be out for up to a month after suffering a groin strain against Brentford last month.
The 26-year-old was replaced by Chris Wood in the 81st minute, with no indication of any injury.
However, he was left out of the matchday squad against Crystal Palace last night, with boss Cooper admitting that he picked up the issue during the 1-1 draw last weekend.
Awoniyi received a call-up to the Nigerian national side this week alongside fellow Red Ola Aina, however, his setback will undoubtedly see him withdraw from their games during the break.
Steve Cooper on Awoniyi’s injury
Speaking to BBC Radio Nottingham after the stalemate, Cooper confirmed the injury but has faith in the striker to come back even stronger.
He pulled his groin [against Brentford]. It’s really unfortunate for him because he’s started the season really well.
“What I would say is he had a serious injury last season that kept him out for three months and the way he committed to that allowed him to come back better.
“When he picked the injury up against Southampton, he was in good form – which shows with the right attitude and recovery he will do the exact same again.”
Time for others to step up
The injury to Awoniyi allows for the likes of Wood and Divock Origi to gain valuable first-team minutes – proving a point to Cooper as to why they deserve a starting spot.
We now have a two-week international break, but should Awoniyi be out for the whole month as suggested by Cooper, one of the two will start at home against Luton Town on the 21st of October.
