Vital Norwich City editor ‘Savvy_Monkey’ gives us the lowdown on the Canaries ahead of Saturday’s clash.
Vital Norwich City editor ‘Savvy_Monkey’ gives us the lowdown on the Canaries ahead of Saturday’s clash…
Hopes, fears & expectations for the season?
My fear was that we’d never get over the loss of Lambert – we started the season with a bit of a post-survival hang over and received a couple of drubbings where we looked well short.
However, Hughton took time to understand the strengths of the team and embed his new signings. The last seven games (which we are unbeaten) has raised my expectations and I’d hope for a comfortable mid-table finish again with safety secured in the early spring.
How has Chris Hughton done recently?
He’s done fantastically – we have a settled XI and the win over Arsenal has given us the confidence that we can beat anyone.
He’s a bit sensible compared to Lambert and only introduces players very late in the game, but that’s his style and it’s working. I doubt anyone would do any better in his role at the moment.
Grant Holt – worthy of an England call-up?
I think his chance may have gone. He deserved to be called up to the friendlies prior to the Euro’s but alas it wasn’t to be. He’s playing reasonably well this year but he looks heavier than last year (he’s never been svelte) and is doing all the work up front on his own at the moment.
If we go with two-up he will get more chances but we lose the all-important solidity.
Key player on Sunday?
Wes Hoolahan. I expect us to have a fair amount of possession and if we can get Wes involved then he will hurt any side. If Wes is quiet then so are the rest of the team.
One Canary you’d drive to his next club and why?
Steve Morison is not very popular as fans perceive him as lazy, so most would say him. I still think he’s a threat at this level.
Personally I’d pay to courier Leon Barnett anywhere in the world as he’s a liability – his brain is about two seconds behind his body.
One Black Cat you’d snare and why?
Adam Johnson – I was surprised when Manchester City let him go as he always looks a class act. I think he can play for any club in the world, his shooting is very accurate and I just hope he has an off day tomorrow.
Any injuries/suspensions?
John Ruddy is out for three months with a torn thigh muscle, but we have an able deputy in Mark Bunn.
Michael Turner is still injured I believe – he’s done very well after a shaky start, but we have young Ryan Bennett who we spent a lot of money on in January from Peterborough, who I personally think is a better player, if inconsistent.
Match prediction?
2-0. An early goal from us, then we’ll shut up shop. Jackson will come on late and get a breakaway goal, I hope!
Cheers Savvy, you’ve no concerns on the Johnson front! Make sure you check out Vital Norwich to see how I answered some similar questions!
