“Mentally strong” – Ex-Union Berlin striker reacts to Taiwo Awoniyi’s goal for Nott’m Forest vs Brentford

Taiwo Awoniyi scored his first goal of the year from the bench in Nottingham Forest's 2-nil victory over Brentford FC at the Brentford Community Stadium on Sunday…

Former Union Berlin forward Anthony Ujah has praised Taiwo Awoniyi’s mentality after the Nigerian striker scored in Nottingham Forest’s 2–0 Premier League win over Brentford, Soccernet.ng reports.

Awoniyi’s goal marked an important milestone in his comeback after a long spell out with injury and came at a crucial time for Forest in their battle to move clear of relegation danger.

Ex-Union Berlin teammate praises Awoniyi’s character

Ujah, who played alongside Awoniyi at Union Berlin, exclusively told Soccernet.ng the striker’s return to form did not surprise him, insisting the Forest forward only needs to be fit and available to make an impact.

“I’m personally very happy for Taiwo [Awoniyi]. It has not been an easy time, but one thing I know about him is that all he needs is to be on the pitch,” Ujah said to Soccernet.ng. “It doesn’t matter what the situation is at the club or the amount of pressure around him — as long as he is fit and on the pitch, he will always deliver.”

The former Super Eagles striker revealed their close bond during their Bundesliga days and stressed that Awoniyi’s injury problems over the past year shows his mental strength.

“He’s a boy I spent a lot of time with at Union Berlin, and I got to know him very well. He has a very strong mentality. Very strong. He has been very unlucky with the injuries he has had over the past year,” he added.

Proof of Premier League quality

Awoniyi has endured a difficult period since suffering a serious abdominal injury last season, which ruled him out for several months and disrupted his form at Forest. His goal against Brentford, however, served as a reminder of his effectiveness when fully fit.

“That alone shows his character and how mentally strong he is. He is always coming back and always delivering, even when people no longer expect it,” Ujah said. “Some players find it very difficult to return after long periods out because of pressure and expectations, but all Taiwo needs is to be on the pitch.”

Ujah also insisted that Awoniyi’s latest display shows his credentials as a top-flight striker.

“He has proven over and over again that he is a Premier League player, and I’m glad he showed that again in just a few minutes on the pitch,” he noted.

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Boost for Nottingham Forest and the Super Eagles

Beyond club football, Ujah believes Awoniyi remains an important figure for Nigeria because of his experience and mentality.

“He is also one of the experienced players we need in the national team. If he maintains this form and stays fit, I have no doubt he will continue to be a vital player for his team,” Ujah concluded.

Awoniyi’s strike at Brentford lifted Nottingham Forest, with five points clear of the relegation zone. It also strengthened his case for a more prominent role for club and country as he looks to put his injury troubles firmly behind him.