Super Eagles striker, Taiwo Awoniyi is now out of an induced coma and recovering steadily following emergency surgery for a serious abdominal injury that was described as potentially life-threatening.
According to BBC Sport, Awoniyi underwent an intensive and complex medical procedure earlier this week and was placed under close observation in intensive care on Wednesday night.
Thankfully, the surgery was completed successfully, and the Nottingham Forest forward is now awake and recovering in hospital, surrounded by his family.
Awoniyi first underwent surgery on Monday, after which he was placed in an induced coma on Tuesday to help medical professionals monitor his progress.
The second phase of the operation, which involved closing the wound, took place on Wednesday.
Forest are expected to launch an internal review into the incident, particularly regarding the events leading up to and following the injury.
The forward sustained the injury during a recent Premier League match after a collision that required prolonged treatment on the pitch.
Despite showing clear signs of distress, Awoniyi reportedly told medical personnel he could continue playing.
It wasn’t long, however, before it became evident that the forward was still affected by the injury raising concerns about the decision to allow him to continue.
With head coach Nuno Espírito Santo having already used all available substitutions at that point, Awoniyi remained on the pitch.
Forest are now keen to understand exactly what happened and whether correct procedures were followed in handling the injury.
The club is also expected to review broader safety protocols to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The situation has reignited debates around IFAB’s guidelines, particularly the rule that requires assistant referees to delay raising the offside flag when there is a potential goalscoring opportunity.
Critics argue that this policy may put players at unnecessary risk, especially in high-speed, high-impact situations.
Awoniyi’s condition is reportedly stable, and his recovery is progressing well.
