Norwich City’s surprise exit from the Capital One Cup may have shaken a few Canary fans this week. However, one must remember the importance of the league. Yes, it would be nice to taste success in the cup competitions, but it isn’t at the forefront of the Neil Adams’ tick list.
A somewhat reshuffled Norwich City side collapsed against a stubborn Shrewsbury Town as the hosts ran away victors by the solitary goal. The game did however produce some positives; there were chances for Gary Hooper and Jonny Howson to complete their comebacks to the first team squad after fighting back from injuries. Meanwhile there were debuts for Ignasi Miquel and Vadis Odjidja-Ofoe. Adams was able to christen his players to the Yellow and Green shirts and give them a flavour of first team football. With the Blackpool game at the weekend beckoning, Adams will have whet the appetites of his players who are ready to start in the crunch tie on Saturday.
Defeat may be a word that leaves City fans reminiscing of life in the Premier League; however, defeat in the cup means Adams and co can focus elsewhere and prioritise their Championship campaign.
City will be ready to bring back euphoria to Norfolk on Saturday as they look to return to winning ways at Blackpool. If the Canaries can find their form and eradicate the disappointment of Tuesday night, then surely City fans can expect another 3 points travelling back to East Anglia.
Tuesday was a minor blip in what has been a successful season for Norwich City thus far. It was just the second time this season that the Norfolk club has tasted defeat. Adams will be looking to rally his troops once again as they dust themselves down and move on to the next challenge. With the fixtures coming thick and fast, City will have no time to dwell on the past and rest on their laurels in the league; it’s time to kick on.
With players knocking on the door of the first team, Adams will have a headache on his hands and not for the wrong reasons. The likes of Howson, Hooper and Odjidja-Ofoe will be pushing for starts; but it is up to the current crop of players to keep them out of the side, no matter how big the name is on the back of the shirt.
As the top of the Championship table teases the Canaries, they will need to remain focused and take one game at a time as they look to reach the summit. It may be early days, but Adams has got his side in a commanding position to achieve their goal.
Promotion.
OTBC!
