Frank Lampard is confident that Taiwo Awoniyi will prove to be a significant asset for Coventry City once he has fully adjusted following his transfer from Nottingham Forest.
The 29-year-old striker marked his first appearance for the Sky Blues during the Arsenal match on Friday evening, entering the play for the final 20 minutes of the 3-0 loss at the Emirates Stadium. It was a challenging evening for Coventry, who managed only one effort on target throughout the match – a late header from Jack Rudoni that Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya collected with ease.
Lampard explained afterward that Awoniyi had limited pre-season playing time and is gradually building up his match sharpness following his £9million transfer from the City Ground.
Coventry face Plymouth Argyle in the Carabao Cup on Tuesday evening, a fixture that offers an ideal chance for Awoniyi to accumulate more playing time and rediscover his goalscoring rhythm.
Commenting on the tall striker following the opening Premier League defeat at the weekend, Lampard noted that he brings obvious qualities to the team, particularly his physical strength, power and pace. He also possesses sharp instincts in the penalty area, which he was unable to demonstrate fully in the limited time available on Friday. The manager recalled that Awoniyi had previously found the net against teams under his guidance and described the Nigerian international as someone who brings valuable presence to the squad. Lampard acknowledged the affection shown by Nottingham Forest supporters and staff toward Awoniyi upon his departure, expressing his belief that this kind of positive energy is exactly what Coventry need. He stated his conviction that Awoniyi will develop into an important player for the club.
Regarding the striker’s match fitness, Lampard observed that the 20 minutes he received was appropriate given his lack of pre-season minutes, and he expects the forward to grow stronger and more effective with each appearance thanks to his natural qualities as a number nine.