Taiwo Awoniyi's Premier League sanction: Bassey takes action to back Super Eagles teammate amid fears

Super Eagles defender Calvin Bassey has jumped to the defense of his international teammate, Taiwo Awoniyi, following reports that the striker could face sanctions from the English FA, Afrik-Foot reports.

Awoniyi netted a crucial goal in Nottingham Forest’s emphatic 3-0 victory over Tottenham Hotspur at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium—a match that was expected to be a tense relegation dogfight.

The Nigerian forward got on the end of a teasing cross from Neco Williams, prodding the ball home to seal the win for the visitors.

Taiwo Awoniyi of Nottingham Forest scores. Copyright: ImagoxKatiexChan

The goal was Awoniyi’s second of the campaign and his first in two months. To celebrate the milestone, he removed his match jersey and sprinted to the corner flag to kneel in prayer. Displayed boldly on his undershirt was the message: “God is the greatest.”

While referee Michael Oliver immediately cautioned Awoniyi with a yellow card for removing his shirt, the consequences may not end there.

A subsequent report by Soccernet noted that the striker could face further disciplinary action, as the religious inscription on his undershirt technically contravenes Premier League and FA regulations regarding personal or religious messages. Under these rules, Awoniyi could face a fine or even a multi-match ban.

Calvin Bassey Jumps to Taiwo Awoniyi’s Defense

Responding to the growing controversy, Fulham defender Calvin Bassey took to social media to show his support.

Bassey retweeted a post on X (formerly Twitter) that questioned the FA’s consistency, stating: “The same FA who stopped football matches for Ramadan? That FA?”

Calvin Bassey shows support for Taiwo Awoniyi. X screenshot

Bassey’s reaction came in response to reports that the Nottingham Forest star was officially being looked at for punishment.

As it stands, the English FA has reportedly charged Awoniyi for the display. However, the player and his camp will be hoping for a lenient outcome—potentially just a warning—given that the message was a peaceful expression of faith and not a controversial or political statement.