Transfer: ‘He Was Frustrated’ – Lampard Reveals Why Awoniyi Left Nottingham Forest For Coventry City

Coventry City manager Frank Lampard has explained why Nigerian striker Taiwo Awoniyi left Nottingham Forest to join the newly promoted Premier League club.

According to Lampard, Awoniyi was frustrated by his limited playing time at Forest and wanted to move to a club where he could play more regularly.

Awoniyi joined Coventry City during the current summer transfer window after finishing last season strongly with Nottingham Forest. He scored three goals and provided two assists in his final six matches for the club.

Speaking ahead of Coventry City’s Premier League opening match against Arsenal, Lampard praised Awoniyi’s qualities and recalled how dangerous the striker was when he faced him during his time as Chelsea manager.

“Regarding Taiwo, we are familiar with his Premier League background. He has scored against my team in the past when I was at Chelsea. I have always regarded him as a significant threat as an opponent,” he stated.

Lampard explained that Coventry wanted to add Premier League experience to their squad and believed Awoniyi’s physical strength and ability to hold up the ball would be valuable to the team.

“When evaluating our recruitment strategy, we aimed to incorporate Premier League experience. We sought power and strength, a player capable of holding the ball up, and I believe he is immensely valuable,” he added.

The Coventry manager also said Awoniyi’s desire for regular football was an important reason behind his decision to leave Nottingham Forest.

“There is a reason why Taiwo left Nottingham Forest and came to us. We really like him and hope he’s going to be great for us. We are aware of that, and I would flip that to the mental side of Taiwo. Probably, he is frustrated with game time.

“Thus, I appreciate a player who is eager to play and secure his minutes. Naturally, we must take care of him and prepare him. However, I value a player who aspires to be the key figure and play more minutes,” he stated.

Awoniyi had a difficult time securing regular playing opportunities at Nottingham Forest, with competition from Chris Wood and Brazilian forward Igor Jesus limiting his chances.

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Lampard will now hope Awoniyi can rediscover his best form and play an important role as Coventry City begin life in the Premier League.