Taiwo Awoniyi: Frank Lampard reveals why Coventry City made £9m striker their priority

When Coventry City shelled out £9m to bring Taiwo Awoniyi to the CBS Arena this week, it sent a clear message across the top flight: the Sky Blues are here to play, and they mean business.

Securing the 29-year-old Nigeria international from Nottingham Forest isn’t just another transfer—it was a huge statement for a club preparing to tackle the relentless demands of Premier League football.

Former Chelsea legend turned Coventry boss Frank Lampard knew exactly who he needed to lead the line for his newly-promoted side.

Awoniyi, who captured hearts at the City Ground over his four-year stint—even earning an emotional guard of honour during Forest’s pre-season clash against Brest—brings pure physicality and elite experience.

Lampard is backing his new main man to transform the Sky Blues’ frontline.

“In terms of Taiwo (Awoniyi), we know him from what he’s done at Nottingham Forest and I always thought he was a threat as an opponent,” Lampard was quoted by the BBC.

“I think with Sidiki (Cherif), he will be different to Taiwo,but it is a positive move from the club because we like to try and develop players.”

While squad depth remains vital, the dynamic between new arrivals offers Lampard incredible tactical versatility.

Yet, it was Awoniyi’s elite pedigree and raw drive that made him the priority target to spearhead the attack for the West Midlands side.

For the Super Eagles forward, trading the Tricky Trees for Coventry came down to a burning fire inside: the desire to be the focal point of an ambitious project.

After finding starting opportunities limited in Nottingham, Awoniyi chose to embrace a fresh challenge where he can lead from the front.

“There is a reason why Taiwo left Nottingham Forest and come to us. We really like him and hope he’s going to be great for us. We are aware of that and I would flip that to the mental side of Taiwo, probably he is frustrated with game time,” added Lampard.

“So, I like a player that is hungry to play and get his minutes, of course, we have to look after him and prepare him. But, I like a player that wanted to be the man and play more minutes. ”

That hunger to be “the man” could be the ultimate catalyst as the Sky Blues fight for Premier League survival and beyond.