'The one who makes runs' - Glasner explains why Chelsea striker was signed after Awoniyi departure
'The one who makes runs' - Glasner explains why Chelsea striker was signed after Awoniyi departure
Nottingham Forest manager Olivier Glasner has revealed what the club missed following the departure of Nigerian striker Taiwo Awoniyi to Coventry City during the current summer window.
The former Union Berlin striker moved to the CBS Arena after falling down the pecking order at the City Ground behind Chris Wood and Brazilian forward Igor Jesus.
Despite playing a fringe role for Forest, Glasner revealed that the club missed Awoniyi's ability to make runs behind opposition defenders and provide a different dimension to their attack.
The former Crystal Palace boss added that Forest decided to sign out-of-favour Chelsea striker Liam Delap to fill the void created by the departure of the Super Eagles star.
Speaking during his press conference ahead of the clash against Liverpool, Glasner described Wood as an experienced striker who can operate effectively inside the box, while highlighting Igor's qualities as a playing centre-forward.
However, the Forest manager believes Delap possesses the qualities required to replace the attacking threat previously provided by Awoniyi.
“We have a top striker in the box in Chris Wood, who is a proven Premier League goal scorer. We have a playing number in Igor. When Taiwo left, the one who makes the runs in behind we were missing and then we were looking for this profile and Liam is the perfect,” Glasner said.
Despite his struggles for regular playing time at Forest, Awoniyi has made an impressive start to life at Coventry City, scoring one goal and providing an assist in their 4-2 victory over Plymouth Argyle in the Carabao Cup.
The Nigerian striker will now be keen to build on his impressive start, rediscover his best form and play an important role as the Sky Blues look to maintain their Premier League status.
Adeyemi Adewale
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