Nuno Espirito Santo has provided the latest Nottingham Forest injury update ahead of their Premier League clash against Fulham, with doubts over Taiwo Awoniyi and Callum Hudson-Odoi.
Taiwo Awoniyi Injury Update: Concussion Protocol and Broken Nose
Taiwo Awoniyi’s availability remains uncertain as he goes through concussion protocols following a nasty head injury sustained in the FA Cup clash against Exeter.
The Nigerian forward suffered a broken nose in the 89th minute of Tuesday’s match, which Forest won via a penalty shootout.
Taiwo Awoniyi with a lovely bit of hold-up play and a clinical finish to match for @NFFC 👌#EmiratesFACup pic.twitter.com/oMi9XqZXMC
— Emirates FA Cup (@EmiratesFACup) February 11, 2025
Nuno Espirito Santo Provides Injury Update on Awoniyi
Head coach Nuno Espirito Santo confirmed that Awoniyi is undergoing the necessary medical checks to determine if he can resume training. The club must follow the 12-day concussion protocol if required.
“He broke his nose, so he is in pain. We are waiting for the right protocols to be followed. We have to wait and see if he is available because of the concussion. We have to be careful,” Nuno said.
"He looks okay, he's smiling with pain, but in these situations we have to be careful" 💬
Nuno Espirito Santo says Nottingham Forest will have to "wait and see" if Taiwo Awoniyi is available to play against Fulham, after suffering from a broken nose in FA Cup win against Exeter. pic.twitter.com/NOqYGNTQiN
— Sky Sports News (@SkySportsNews) February 13, 2025
Despite the injury, Awoniyi has been measured for a protective mask, which could allow him to play if he clears the concussion tests.
“He is looking at his mask because it has to be the right measurements. More than anything, we are waiting on the clearance of the concussion protocols, so I am not sure whether he is going to be available or not,” Nuno added.
Callum Hudson-Odoi Injury Update: Winger Nearing Return
Forest winger Callum Hudson-Odoi is close to making his return from a groin injury. The former Chelsea star has resumed training and could be in contention for the Fulham match.
“It’s progressing, he joined the group yesterday, today also he was part of the sessions,” Nuno revealed. “We still have tomorrow to assess him. A lot of players have knocks, but I’m positive.”
Forest’s Fixture Congestion and Recovery Challenges
The extra-time battle against Exeter meant Forest’s players endured a late-night return to the City Ground, arriving back after 2 AM. Despite the demanding schedule, Nuno insists the team remains focused and motivated.
“It will have an impact, but the best way to deal with it is to stay positive. But we made it, and every time you have to prepare for a match, it’s best if you’ve won,” he concluded.