Glasner praises Awoniyi as Forest farewell follows 2-0 Brest win

Nottingham Forest beat Brest 2-0 in their final pre-season friendly as Taiwo Awoniyi received a farewell from the club. The Nigerian striker has made more than 100 appearances for Forest and is preparing to join Coventry City.

Awoniyi was allowed to leave the squad to complete the move to the newly promoted Premier League side. Before the game at the City Ground, Forest supporters and teammates marked his departure with a guard of honour.

Forest head coach Oliver Glasner praised Awoniyi’s commitment and contribution during his time at the club. Glasner, who took charge this summer, also highlighted the respect shown to the striker by the dressing room and the supporters during the farewell.

Awoniyi joined Forest in 2022 and scored 21 Premier League goals across his four seasons with the club. His progress was affected by injuries at different stages, but he made a strong impression during Glasner’s pre-season work, scoring in the 3-0 victory over Blackburn Rovers on July 22.

The transfer is valued at around £17 million, with Awoniyi set to remain in the Premier League. Coventry won the Championship last season and are strengthening their attack under manager Frank Lampard before their return to the top flight.

Forest’s 2-0 victory over Brest ended their pre-season programme on a positive note, although it will not affect their league position. Their recent sequence also includes wins against Blackburn and Notts County, draws with Guimaraes and Bournemouth, and a 3-2 defeat at Manchester United. Forest begin their Premier League campaign against Leeds on August 22, while Coventry face Arsenal on August 21.