Nottingham Forest striker Taiwo Awoniyi has raved about Steve Cooper ahead of today’s game against Liverpool. The Reds travel to Anfield looking to claim a win for the first time in five matches.
Awoniyi has been missing of late after picking up a groin injury. There is a chance that he could return to the squad today, although next weekend’s game against Aston Villa looks more realistic.
The 26-year-old is very important to how Forest play under Cooper. Since checking in on Trentside for £18 million from Union Berlin, he’s scored 14 goals for the Reds.
Awoniyi heaps praise on Cooper
The striker will hope to be back on the pitch very soon as Forest desperately go in search of a win. He hasn’t played since the 1-1 draw against Brentford and he won’t be happy to be missing games.
Forest star Awoniyi returns to Anfield today after giving Ibrahima Konate the runaround last season. However, whether he manages to make the squad remains to be seen.
Ahead of the game, he’s been interviewed by Liverpool’s official website. He’s been quizzed on Cooper and he’s giving a glowing assessment of his head coach.
He said ahead of the contest: “He’s one of the best coaches I’ve worked under. The way he goes about things, the way he speaks to players and the confidence he gives.
“We had a lot of pressure last season, but you could see in his eyes that he always believes, he knew we were going to stay up. That’s what every player wants from their manager. He gives you the belief that you can really get to the peak of your career if you’re ready to work for him and go for it.”
Awoniyi hails head coach and Forest need him back
The striker is so important to how Forest play. Awoniyi is a striker with a physical presence and he just offers something different to anyone else int he Forest squad.
It’s absolutely no surprise to hear the player praise Cooper. The head coach has done wonders during his time at Forest and ultimately, he’s one of the most respected coaches around.
Forest need a big performance for their head coach today. Going five games without a win isn’t ideal after another summer of spending and the Reds will be hoping Awoniyi can make the squad for today’s game.
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