Awoniyi makes his first appearance in 55 days as Nottingham Forest claim huge win v Sheffield United

Taiwo Awoniyi made his comeback from injury as Nottingham Forest boosted their chances of survival with a 3-1 win over already relegated Sheffield Unted at Bramall Lane on Saturday afternoon. 

It was the Nigeria international's first appearance in fifty-five days for the two-time European champions after recovering from a thigh injury that saw him miss seven consecutive matches in the Premier League. 

In the 90th minute, manager Nuno Espírito Santo made a double change, one of which saw Awoniyi replace Chris Wood.

Another Nigeria international in Ola Aina has no injury issues and went the distance for Nottingham Forest, playing at left-back. 

Former Forest player Brereton Diaz put the home team ahead in the 17th minute when he converted a penalty. 

Sheffield United's lead lasted only ten minutes as Callum Hudson-Odoi with a superb strike into the far corner leveled matters.

Nottingham Forest upped the tempo in the second half and were rewarded with goals from Ryan Yates and Hudson-Odoi. 

Following the win over the Blades, Nottingham Forest have moved three points clear of the Premier League relegation zone with two matches to the end of the season. 

Awoniyi will be hoping to get more minutes when the Reds face off with Chelsea and Burnley. 

His return to action will be sweet music to the ears of new Nigeria boss Finidi George ahead of next month's double header against South Africa and Benin in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

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