Mainz forward Taiwo Awoniyi says he is in a better physical shape now after sustaining a serious injury in the side’s 1-0 home defeat against Augsburg at the OPEL Arena on Sunday.

Awoniyi hit Augsburg’s Felix Uduokhai’s head in the 17th minute and crashed on the pitch.

The 22-year-old was then taken straight to Mainz University Medicine, where he was diagnosed with a severe concussion.

“The last thing I can remember from this scene is how I hit the ball with my head, then I passed out. It was difficult for me on the field to regain consciousness and was really awake. And it also took a little while before I could remember everything. But I feel much better now,” Awoniyi told the club’s official website.

“I would like to praise our medical department at Mainz 05 and Mainz University Medical Center. They looked after me very well and I thank the dear God who protected me in this situation and made everything possible for me anyway.

“Unfortunately I will not be able to help my team on the pitch in Dortmund, but I will support them as much as I can. Together we will give everything for the fans and secure relegation, I’m sure of that!”