Awoniyi scores, says Forest's winning mentality starts in pre-season
Awoniyi scored and captained Nottingham Forest to a 3-0 pre-season win over Championship side Blackburn Rovers earlier this week, saying the victory showed the side is building the winning mentality needed for the 2026/27 Premier League campaign. The Nigerian international, who struggled with injuries and inconsistent form last season, said pre-season is about regaining rhythm, fitness and confidence, and that every successful season starts with the work done now. He praised the club's atmosphere, crediting the coaching, medical and nutrition staff for creating a productive environment, and noted that the togetherness in camp makes preparations enjoyable and effective. Awoniyi added that the upcoming friendly against Vitória Sport Clube on Sunday will focus on giving players minutes to sharpen ahead of the competitive season. His goal and leadership signal a resurgence after a difficult 2025/26 campaign in which he managed only three goals and two assists in his final six Premier League appearances. Forest's new head coach Oliver Glasner will rely on the striker's returning sharpness as they aim to improve on last season's mid-table finish. Will Awoniyi's pre-season form translate into regular goals for Nottingham Forest and a recall to regular Super Eagles selection as the 2026/27 season approaches?