Nottingham Forest forward Taiwo Awoniyi has been placed in an induced coma after undergoing emergency surgery.
The 27-year-old had the procedure after suffering a severe abdominal injury during Forest`s match against Leicester last Saturday.
Awoniyi was injured when he collided with the goalpost in the 2-2 draw at the City Ground. He initially received medical attention and continued playing.
However, he was later forced off the field, and further evaluation revealed the need for immediate surgery.
The Nigerian international was taken to the hospital on Monday. Early reports suggested the surgery was successful.
He had surgery on Monday night and remains hospitalized, with the remainder of the complex procedure planned for Wednesday.
Doctors had hoped to finish the operation on Tuesday but were unable to, which resulted in Awoniyi being placed in an induced coma.
Forest released a statement after his surgery but have not yet provided an update on his current status, although it is understood he is “recovering well” from the ordeal.
A previous statement from the club read: “Nottingham Forest confirms that Taiwo Awoniyi is recovering well so far following urgent surgery for a serious abdominal injury sustained during Sunday’s match against Leicester City.”
The statement continued: “The severity of his injury serves as a strong reminder of the physical dangers inherent in the sport, and why player health and well-being must always be the top priority.”
The club statement also explained that owner Evangelos Marinakis` strong reaction after the match was due to his concern and frustration over seeing Awoniyi in visible pain on the pitch, emphasizing that player well-being is paramount.
Awoniyi has made 32 appearances for Forest in all competitions this season, scoring two goals.
