EPL: Why I started Awoniyi against Liverpool – Nottingham Forest, Cooper

Nottingham Forest manager, Steve Cooper has said he started Taiwo Awoniyi in Saturday’s 1-0 win against Liverpool because of his physical attribute.

Awoniyi scored the winning goal in the 55th minute against his former club at the City Ground.

The Nigeria international reacted quickly inside the box after his initial shot was saved and tucked the ball into the net.

The 25- year-old made history as the first Nottingham Forest player to score in each of his first three Premier League starts at the City Ground.

Cooper later explained why Awoniyi got the nod ahead of Brennan Johnson and compatriot, Emmanuel Dennis.

T worked so hard. We played him today we thought he could be a handful for Virgil van Dijk. He really proved to be that and deserved his goal,’ Cooper said after the game.

“If he didn’t celebrate, I’ll support whatever a player decides to do. Liverpool loads of the ball and territory, we had some good chances as well.’