Steve Cooper namechecks Awoniyi as he explains why he didn't make attacking changes v Luton 

Nottingham Forest manager Steve Cooper has explained why he couldn't make any attacking changes during his side's 2-2 draw with Luton Town in a Premier League encounter at the City Ground on Saturday afternoon.

An injury-time goal from Super Eagles-eligible forward Elijah Adebayo robbed Nottingham Forest of a win as Luton Town came back from two goals down to earn a point. 

Of the nine players named on Forest's substitutes bench for the gamweek nine fixture, six were defensive-minded players including Ola Aina, two were midfielders and a goalkeeper. 

Cooper's options in attack were limited with Callum Hudson-Odoi and Divock Origi joining Taiwo Awoniyi in Nottingham Forest's treatment room. 

Without a striker to call upon, the Forest boss brought on Joe Worrall, Cheikhou Kouyaté, Ryan Yates, Neco Williams and Ola Aina in the second half 

Speaking to Forest TV post-match, Cooper stated: "We didn't have any natural attacking changes to make in the game today because obviously Taiwo is not back with us either so it's unfortunate really.

"We never used it as an excuse, we had a plan for the types of changes that we would have to make, that's just one of the things you have to deal with, injuries."
 

If his rehabilitation goes according to plan, Awoniyi is expected to return to team training this week, ahead of Forest's trip to Anfield.

The Nigeria national teamer has missed the last two games contested by Forest due to a groin problem.

Igho Kingsley 

Copyright ANS

All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from allnigeriasoccer.com