Forest’s Taiwo Awoniyi in induced coma after urgent abdominal surgery

Nottingham Forest striker Taiwo Awoniyi has been placed in an induced coma to aid his recovery from urgent abdominal surgery, the PA news agency understands.

The Nigeria international underwent a procedure on Monday night, having suffered a serious injury during Sunday’s 2-2 draw with Leicester.

There is no suggestion that the 27-year-old’s condition is life threatening and it is understood the coma will help restrict his movement and regulate his heart rate.

Awoniyi collided with a post late on against the Foxes and received several minutes of treatment before being allowed to return to action.

The extent of his injury was revealed on Monday by the club’s medical staff and he was rushed to hospital for treatment.

Forest said on Tuesday afternoon that he was “recovering well”.

The midlands club also said the seriousness of Awoniyi’s injury validates owner Evangelos Marinakis storming on to the pitch after the match, claiming talks of a confrontation with Nuno Espirito Santo was “fake news”.

Marinakis was seen remonstrating with head coach Nuno after the game, with the Greek businessman furious his injured player was allowed to continue.

A club statement read: “Nottingham Forest can confirm that Taiwo Awoniyi is recovering well so far following urgent surgery on a serious abdominal injury sustained during Sunday’s match against Leicester City.

“At Nottingham Forest, this principle is not just policy for us; it is the deeply held belief and conviction of our owner.

“To Evangelos Marinakis, this isn’t just a football club — it’s family – and he instils that message in all of us.

“That is why he was so personally and emotionally invested in the situation that unfolded at the City Ground on Sunday.

“His reaction was one of