Chris Sutton: Ben Knapper must make an instant changes at Norwich City
Knapper, the new manager of Norwich City, is known for his intelligence and savvy in the game. With the team struggling, he will need to rely on all of his skills to turn things around. His first move has to be a positive one, which means that it is likely the end for David Wagner. The season cannot continue as it is, or the team will find themselves in a relegation battle. Knapper must make a change and make his mark instantly.
The new manager has a big job ahead of him in turning the squad into play-off contenders. There are issues with attitudes and parts of the dressing room that need to be addressed. He will need to work on changing the mindset of the players while getting them on board and motivated. The club’s ambition at the start of the season was to get back into the Premier League, but now it is about building and aiming for a play-off spot. However, a change of direction is necessary to achieve this goal.
The players’ lack of application has been a major problem, and the new manager will need to address this issue and get the players to perform at the desired level of intensity. The players need to take responsibility for their performance and not make excuses for their underperformance. The team has been given a free pass for too long, and the players need to step up and improve. The lack of style and identity in the team has been a long-standing issue that Knapper will need to address in the long term.
Grant Hanley’s return to action for Norwich City’s U21s has been welcomed, as the team has missed his reliability and leadership. Hanley’s presence will provide a lift to the team, especially in the defense, which is in desperate need of his qualities. The young players, such as Jaden Warner, will also need to step up and remain in the squad, despite the increased competition for positions in the team’s faltering back four.
The team’s defensive struggles also need to be addressed, and Knapper will have to find a way to provide more protection from the midfield to prevent easy goals. Hanley’s return is expected to bring reliability and quality to the backline, as well as mentorship to young players like Warner. Overall, Knapper has a big challenge ahead to turn Norwich City’s fortunes around, but with the right strategy and changes, the team can work towards its goals.