“I hope he will be ok” – Forest boss Espirito Santo predicts Taiwo Awoniyi’s return date

Nottingham Forest manager Nuno Espirito Santo has expressed optimism about Taiwo Awoniyi’s return after the Nigerian forward missed his side’s 2-1 defeat against Fulham, Soccernet.ng reports.

Awoniyi was absent from the matchday squad as Forest fell short at Craven Cottage, where their English Premier League title race got dented with a loss to Marco Silva's men.

Fulham beat third-place Nottingham Forest! #FULNFO pic.twitter.com/8izwmNG5tQ

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Meanwhile, the Tricky Trees were without their key player, whose exciting night in Forest's last game against Exeter ended prematurely after suffering a broken nose in a collision with Exeter goalkeeper Joe Whitworth.

This led to the Nigerian missing their game against Fulham, and a possible use of a mask in his next few games, just like his compatriot, Victor Osimhen, known for wearing a mask.

READ MORE: Taiwo Awoniyi set to become the next Osimhen following nose injury

Espirito Santo, speaking after the game, confirmed that the club had not received clearance from the Premier League for the striker to participate.

“We didn’t have the clearance from the Premier League about the concussion protocols, so he was not able to go in the squad,” Nuno explained, as quoted by Nottinghampost. “I hope he will be OK for the next one.”

Despite missing the fixture, the former Union Berlin striker is reportedly feeling fine, but Forest must adhere to league-mandated concussion regulations before he can return to action.

“He is feeling fine, it is about making sure we follow the protocols,” Nuno added. “He was OK, but we have to respect the protocols.”

Forest will be hoping to have Awoniyi back for their next Premier League fixture against Newcastle as they continue their battle to climb up the league table.