Taiwo Awoniyi played on despite sustaining a serious injury which in certain instances can be life-threatening, Mail Sport understands.
The Nottingham Forest striker crashed into a post during their 2-2 draw with Leicester City on Sunday and, following several minutes of treatment, returned to action.
On Tuesday, Forest confirmed that the 27-year-old underwent urgent surgery after the extent of the injury was confirmed on Monday and he was rushed to hospital.
It can now be disclosed that the injury was of a nature which, in some cases, can prove to be fatal.
After the match Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis was spotted in what appeared to be a heated exchange with manager Nuno Espirito Santo.
It is understood that Marinakis was concerned for the player and over whether the injury could have been handled better – and was not remonstrating with the Forest boss.
Awoniyi, a Nigeria international, required around three minutes of treatment but could not be substituted after Forest used their last available switch to replace Elliot Anderson with Jota Silva.
He attempted to carry on, but was unable to move properly as Forest chased a winner which would have provided a major boost to their Champions League hopes.
To further aggravate matters the incident – in which Leicester’s Facundo Buonanotte also cannoned into the upright – came after Anthony Elanga, whose cross Awoniyi was chasing, was allowed to advance on goal, despite being clearly offside.
Play continued thanks to the assistant referee delaying raising the flag, as officials have been instructed.
The two dropped points could prove crucial for Forest. Even if they win their remaining two matches they will be relying on others to drop points themselves.
A Nottingham Forest spokesperson said, “The club can confirm Taiwo Awoniyi has undergone urgent surgery following an abdominal injury sustained during Sunday’s match against Leicester City.
Everyone at Nottingham Forest sends their best wishes to Taiwo. The club will provide further updates when appropriate.”
