Nottingham Forest Striker Taiwo Awoniyi Partially Trains as He Recovers from Thigh Injury

Nottingham Forest striker Taiwo Awoniyi has been partially training with the team as he recovers from a thigh injury that has sidelined him for the last five Premier League games.

Manager Nuno Espirito Santo confirmed that Awoniyi is making progress in his recovery but has not yet fully rejoined the group.

Awoniyi suffered the thigh injury in early March and has been working his way back to fitness. While he is not ready to play in Sunday's critical match against Everton, the 25-year-old Nigerian international has started doing some training with his teammates.

"Taiwo is partially integrated into the group," Nuno said in his pre-match press conference. "He's not in the full session, but he's progressing."

The extent of Awoniyi's injury has not been disclosed, but Nuno indicated that the striker may be able to join the full group in training by the middle of next week. His return would provide a boost to Nottingham Forest's attack as they battle to avoid relegation.

Nottingham Forest are currently in 17th place in the Premier League table, just one point above the relegation zone with five matches remaining. They face a challenging test on Sunday against Everton, who are also fighting for survival.

In addition to Awoniyi, Nottingham Forest will also be without defender Willy Boly for the Everton match. Winger Anthony Elanga is being assessed ahead of the game after missing last week's match with a knock.

Why this matters: Nottingham Forest are locked in a tight relegation battle and need all of their key players healthy as they enter the final stretch of the season. Awoniyi's return from injury would provide a lift to their survival hopes.

Nuno acknowledged the importance of Sunday's match against Everton, with both clubs having been deducted points this season for breaching financial rules. "We know it's going to be a tough match, but we have to focus on ourselves, play good, and try to control the game," he said. Nottingham Forest will look to improve their away form, with upcoming road matches against Sheffield United and Burnley that could prove pivotal in determining their Premier League fate.

Key Takeaways

• Nottingham Forest striker Awoniyi, has partially begun training after a thigh injury
• Awoniyi may rejoin full training next week, boosting Forest's attack
• Forest, currently in 17th place, is facing a crucial match against relegation-battling Everton
• Forest also missing defender Boly, and winger Elanga is being assessed
• Forest need points from upcoming away matches to avoid relegation