Taiwo Awoniyi has started only two games for the Tricky Trees so far this season, and the forward has not scored a goal in the number of games.
The 26-year-old Super Eagles of Nigeria forward wasn’t also at his best last season as injuries limited his playing time.
However, coach Santo remains optimistic about Awoniyi’s potential, emphasizing his need to regain full fitness before returning to his best form.
Santo highlighted the player’s positive contribution, noting that despite the lengthy absence from the starting lineup, the Nigeria international displayed promise during his 45-minute appearance in the match against Fulham and created numerous goal-scoring opportunities.
Santo also mentioned that pairing Awoniyi with fellow forward Chris Wood was a strategic choice they intend to refine for improved results in the future.
“All the strikers need that moment, but Taiwo did well (against Fulham). It’s been a while since he started. He played 45 minutes and created a lot of situations,” the coach told Nottingham Post.
“We’re counting on him. It was an option to put him alongside Wood. It’s something we have to work on and improve because it can give us good results, but that was the first time (we used it). I think he did well.”