Super Eagles and Nottingham Forest striker Taiwo Awoniyi has been placed in an induced coma to aid his recovery following urgent abdominal surgery, according to reports on Tuesday.The Nigeria international player was rushed to hospital for the surgery on Monday after sustaining a serious injury during Sunday's 2-2 draw with Leicester in the Premier League.
Although there is no indication that the 27-year-old's condition is life-threatening, it is understood that the coma is intended to help limit his movement and regulate his heart rate during recovery.
Awoniyi collided with a post while attempting to score in the closing stages of the match against Leicester. He received several minutes of treatment on the pitch before being allowed to continue playing. Despite visible discomfort, Awoniyi played on as Forest, chasing Champions League qualification, had already used all of their substitutes.
The severity of Awoniyi's injury was revealed on Monday by the club's medical staff, leading to his urgent hospitalisation for surgery. On Tuesday afternoon, Nottingham Forest confirmed that Awoniyi was recovering well.
However, Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis was reportedly involved in a heated exchange with manager Nuno Espirito Santo on the City Ground pitch immediately after Sunday's match. The incident followed criticism of Marinakis' behaviour, with Forest stating that the confrontation stemmed from the owner's frustration at Awoniyi continuing to play despite the injury.