Coventry City manager, Frank Lampard, has expressed confidence that Nigerian striker Taiwo Awoniyi will make a significant contribution to the club following his move from Nottingham Forest.
Awoniyi completed his transfer to Coventry earlier this week, ending his four-year stay at the City Ground.
The 29-year-old Nigeria international became a popular figure among Forest supporters during his time with the Premier League club.
Lampard, who has faced Awoniyi as an opponent, believes the striker’s physical strength and experience at the highest level will be important for Coventry as they prepare for their return to the Premier League.
“In terms of Taiwo (Awoniyi), we know him from what he’s done at Nottingham Forest and I always thought he was a threat as an opponent,” Lampard was quoted by the BBC.
The Coventry boss also highlighted the difference between Awoniyi and fellow new signing Sidiki Cherif, stressing that the club is keen to develop its players.
“I think with Sidiki (Cherif), he will be different to Taiwo,but it is a positive move from the club becausewe like to try and develop players.”
Lampard suggested that Awoniyi’s desire for regular football played a major role in his decision to leave Forest, where opportunities had become limited.
“There is a reason why Taiwo left Nottingham Forest and come to us. We really like him and hope he’s going to be great for us. We are aware of that and I would flip that to the mental side of Taiwo, probably he is frustrated with game time,” added Lampard.
“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 wanted to be the man and play more minutes. ”
Lampard will now hope Awoniyi can translate that hunger into goals and strong performances as Coventry face the demands of Premier League football.
