Sean Dyche Hails Taiwo Awoniyi After Impactful Cameo in Forest’s 3–1 Win Over Leeds

Nottingham Forest manager Sean Dyche has lauded Taiwo Awoniyi for his game-changing display in the club’s 3–1 Premier League victory over Leeds United at the City Ground on Sunday, reports Nigeriasoccernet.com.

Awoniyi, introduced in the 59th minute to replace Igor Jesus, made an instant impact to help Forest secure their first home win under Dyche’s management.

Speaking after the match, Dyche expressed delight at the Nigerian striker’s attitude and growing influence within the squad.

“Tee [Taiwo Awoniyi] was excellent,” Dyche told Premier League Productions. “He seemed a little bit lost when we first got here, but he knows he has a part to play for us. I thought he was excellent today.”

The performance signals a positive turnaround in what has been a testing campaign for Awoniyi. Earlier in the season, the 28-year-old struggled for form and consistency, often finding himself excluded from matchday squads and omitted from Forest’s UEFA Europa League list.

Since Dyche’s arrival, however, Awoniyi has gradually regained rhythm and confidence, featuring in three league matches and accumulating 88 minutes of playtime. His determination and improved sharpness have impressed both fans and technical staff.

Awoniyi, who was left out of Nigeria’s squad for the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup Playoff against Gabon, will be hoping that his resurgence at club level strengthens his case for a Super Eagles recall ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.