Liverpool to recall striker Taiwo Awoniyi from Mainz loan

Liverpool are reportedly set to recall Taiwo Awoniyi from Mainz. (h/t Liverpool Echo)

The Nigerian striker has struggled for playtime at the Bundesliga side and is set to return to Merseyside. The 22-year-old is goalless in 6 appearances in the Bundesliga this season with 5 of them coming off the bench. (h/t Whoscored)

Mainz manager Achim Beierlorzer has praised the striker for his athleticism, speed and good shot. He has however revealed that the player has lacked effectiveness when played.

“You don’t play because you have everything, but because you are effective“

The Nigerian Under-23 international has found himself behind Adam Szalai in the pecking order at Mainz despite the fact that the Hungarian has managed just one goal in 14 Bundesliga appearances this season.

With first-choice striker Jean-Philippe Mateta returning from injury, Awoniyi is likely to get even lesser playtime.

The 22-year-old who joined the Reds in 2015 is yet to make an appearance for the Merseysiders. He has perpetually spent his time out on loan at 5 different clubs across 6 different spells.

Awoniyi impressed in both his loan spells in the Belgian first division at Royal Excel Mouscron. He made 47 appearances for the Belgians and scored 21 goals. (h/t Whoscored)

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The youngster has represented Nigeria at various youth levels. He has scored 13 goals in 20 appearances at the Under-17, Under-20 and Under-23 levels.