Coventry City manager Frank Lampard has confirmed that Nigerian international Taiwo Awoniyi is available for selection ahead of the club’s Premier League clash against Tottenham Hotspur.
Awoniyi missed Coventry City’s previous two fixtures against Aston Villa and Nottingham Forest after serving a suspension for violent conduct.
The Super Eagles forward was sent off by referee Tony Harrington during Coventry’s Premier League match against Brighton on September 13 after striking defender Maxim De Cuyper in the face with his elbow during an aerial challenge.
Speaking to journalists on Thursday ahead of the trip to Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, Lampard said Awoniyi had returned to contention after missing the club’s recent matches.
The former Chelsea midfielder said the striker remained an important part of his plans, highlighting the need for competition among forwards as Coventry seek to establish themselves in the Premier League.
“Taiwo has missed his three games; he’s back in. We bought him for a reason. I think he was doing pretty well before the red card and missing the games,” Lampard said.
However, Lampard faces a selection dilemma over whether to restore Awoniyi to the starting lineup or retain Sidiki Cherif, who impressed in the club’s victory over Newcastle United last weekend.
Coventry have also shown signs of improvement during Awoniyi’s absence, recording consecutive Premier League victories after losing their opening four matches.
Awoniyi’s return provides Lampard with another attacking option as Coventry prepare for a challenging encounter against Tottenham.