Morrison believes Awoniyi will shine at Coventry

Former Coventry City striker Clinton Morrison thinks Taiwo Awoniyi has found his desire and sharpness again. He believes Awoniyi can help the newly promoted team stay in the Premier League, according to PUNCH Sports Extra.

Awoniyi moved to Coventry from Nottingham Forest in a reported £9m deal this summer. He has been given the chance to lead Frank Lampard's attack after the club's return to the top league after 25 years.

The 29-year-old faced many injuries at Forest, which limited his chances in his last seasons there. But Morrison believes a fresh start at Coventry could bring out the best in the Nigerian.

Morrison shared his thoughts with GOAL, saying, "He looks much better. He looks hungry."

He added, "He didn’t really play at Forest. It was a bit of a stop-start. He had injuries. And then when you’re not number one and you’re coming off the bench for five minutes here and there, you’re not going to get confidence."

Morrison said, "I think what he’s shown to me at Coventry is that he’s a different player. He looks hungry, runs in behind, he’s causing a lot of problems."

He continued, "For me, I think he’ll be a good signing. And for what they’re paying, I think £10-12m, it could be a bargain if he scores the goals to keep them up."

Awoniyi joined Forest in 2022 after they were promoted to the Premier League and scored 10 league goals in his first season.

But injuries, including a serious groin injury in May 2025, slowed his progress and limited his playing time.

Moving to Coventry has also raised hopes for a return to the Nigeria national team. Awoniyi has 10 senior caps but has not played for the Super Eagles since 2023.

Morrison knows it won't be easy for Awoniyi to get back into the national team with Victor Osimhen as Nigeria’s first-choice striker. But he believes regular football at Coventry could help Awoniyi's case.

He said, "Of course. Everyone wants to play for their country and wants to play international football. It’s going to be difficult because he’s got one of the best strikers ahead of him, Victor Osimhen. So it’s always going to be hard."

Morrison added, "But to be involved in and around the squad, that’s what you want to do. It’s a great opportunity."

He believes Coventry has given Awoniyi the chance to be their main striker. Morrison said, "Once he gets that first goal, you get the monkey off your back and you go on a good run. And that’s what he’ll be hoping for."

Morrison concluded, "The signs I’ve seen so far: he looks hungry, lean and fitter."

So far, Awoniyi has played four games for Coventry, scoring once and providing an assist.