Lampard Reveals Why Awoniyi Left Nottingham Forest for Coventry

Coventry City manager Frank Lampard has revealed that Taiwo Awoniyi left Nottingham Forest because he wanted more regular playing time ahead of the new Premier League season.

The Nigeria international joined Coventry City during the summer after ending the 2025/26 campaign strongly at Forest, scoring three goals and providing two assists in his final six appearances.

Speaking ahead of Coventry’s Premier League opener against Arsenal, Lampard praised Awoniyi’s qualities and recalled facing the striker when he was Chelsea manager.

“In terms of Taiwo, we know him from his Premier League experience. He scored against my team before when I was at Chelsea. I always felt that he is a threat as an opponent,” Lampard said.

The Coventry boss explained that Awoniyi’s Premier League experience, strength and ability to hold up the ball were key reasons behind the club’s decision to sign him.

“When you look across our recruitment idea, we wanted to bring in Premier League experience. Power and strength, a player that can hold the ball up, and I think he is very valuable,” he added.

Lampard also admitted that Awoniyi was frustrated by his lack of regular football at Nottingham Forest.

“There is a reason why Taiwo left Nottingham Forest and came to us. We really like him and hope he’s going to be great for us,” Lampard said.

“We are aware of that and I would flip that to the mental side of Taiwo, probably he is frustrated with game time.

“So, I like a player that is hungry to play and get his minutes. Of course, we have to look after him and prepare him, but I like a player that wants to be the man and play more minutes.”

Awoniyi struggled for regular starts at Forest last season, with competition from Chris Wood and Brazilian striker Igor Jesus making it difficult for him to secure consistent playing time.

The move to Coventry gives the 28-year-old another chance to show his quality in the Premier League.

Awoniyi will now hope to repay Lampard’s faith, stay fit and establish himself as an important player for the newly promoted side as they begin life in the top flight.