Taiwo Awoniyi has revealed that he initially dreamed of becoming a defender before eventually establishing himself as a striker, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.
The Nottingham Forest forward explained in an interview with the club’s official website that he played in several positions during his early years before settling in attack.
“When I was younger, I always played in different positions. I started in defence before moving into midfield and eventually to striker,” Awoniyi said.
“Once, when I went to a trial, we were short of a player, so I had to play as a 10 and a striker as well. I scored goals then as well, so since then I always wanted to be a centre-forward.
“Before being a forward, I wanted to be a centre-back. I always enjoyed playing there with my friends, but further down the line I wanted to be a forward, and I’ve played there ever since.”
The Nigerian international also reflected on his time with Liverpool FC and how the experience helped shape his football career.
“Being with Liverpool helped me be who I am today as well. Like I said, I always wanted to play in the Premier League and play in England, and by joining Liverpool, I had that opportunity.
“I was hoping to play, but it didn’t happen, so I had to go on loan, which was challenging. I had a number of loans in different countries, but it helped me to understand different cultures and different people. It also helped me understand more about football and experience what players can go through when they’re on loan.
“I was still young and going through it with the hope of making it in the Premier League. The loans helped me develop as a player, but after all those moves, I said to myself that that would be the last.”