Taiwo Awoniyi is a good backup for Chris Wood – Former Manchester City defender

Former Manchester City defender Stuart Pearce has hailed the attacking options at Nottingham Forest, describing Taiwo Awoniyi as a solid backup for the in-form Chris Wood under manager Nuno Espirito Santo, Soccernet.ng reports.

The New Zealand's all-time leading goalscorer has been firing on all cylinders this season, netting nine goals in 14 appearances for Forest.

Signed on loan from Newcastle United in January 2023, Wood’s deal was made permanent during the summer transfer window, and he has since established himself as Forest’s main striker.

Meanwhile, Taiwo Awoniyi, who impressed last season, has struggled with form and injuries, failing to score in his 11 appearances so far this campaign.

Pearce believes the depth in Forest’s attacking department is a key strength for the team, particularly their counterattacking prowess.

“The legs they’ve got on the counterattack have been very good. They are the only team to win at Liverpool because of the counterattack threat they offer,” Pearce noted, as quoted by Nottinghampost.

The Nottingham Forest legend also praised Wood’s contributions, calling his current run of form a “halcyon period” in his career.

“And Chris Wood is scoring goals, which is fantastic for the club as well. He is having a halcyon period in his career,” Pearce said. “If he’s not fit, Taiwo Awoniyi did well last season so can step in for him. The bottom line is they’ve got threat on the counterattack with pace, and two goalscorers at the point of the team.”

Although Nottingham Forest struggled to make an impact during their visit to the Etihad Stadium, with both Chris Wood and Taiwo Awoniyi failing to find the net, they will be aiming for a strong comeback when they face Manchester United on Saturday.