Kyle Lafferty’s time in Norfolk has been far from enjoyable for the Northern Irishman. He has seemingly done everything possible to get himself into the side, and still has not managed to get into Alex Neil’s plans.
Lafferty has spoken out several times about his need to play regular first team football and was linked with a loan move away from Norwich. Leeds were one club after his signature, but that has since died down.
With Northern Ireland qualifying for the European Championships, their top scorer in the qualifying campaign will need to be in top form for the summer. However, he will not be able to if he is not playing consistent first-team football.
His international manager, Michael O’Neill agrees. He has spoken out about the need for Lafferty to be playing consistently and scoring goals, something Norwich are not allowing him to do at the moment.
Michael O’Neill speaking about Lafferty’s situation said this:
It is a concern for me in terms of how Kyle is.
His opportunities have been very limited and that situation doesn’t seem to be changing.
He has scored goals at international level, but it hasn’t affected his playing time with his club. His only option at the moment would be going out on emergency loan to a Championship club, but there are probably financial implications for his club.
Whatever happens between now and January, I think it’s a big thing for Kyle to be settled and playing in January, for his peace of mind as much as anything else. He needs to be playing. He has shown for us when he is settled what he is capable of. I just don’t think he’s had the opportunity Norwich, if I’m being honest. In normal circumstances you might rest someone like Kyle (against Latvia), but he needs to play.
Is it time for Lafferty to say farewell to the Norwich faithful and move on in January?
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