Norwich City have no new injury concerns ahead of another big match in the race for promotion on Saturday against QPR (12.30pm).
Daniel Farke is in position to speak to the media ahead of City's early kick-off with Queens Park Rangers tomorrow. #ncfc
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Carlton Morris looks set to get some minutes with the U23s tonight as he nears a return to full match fitness after a season ruined by serious injury.
To have a fully fit squad at this stage of the season is an outstanding achievement and Head Coach, Daniel Farke was keen to emphasise the work his physio’s and sports scientists.
”Big compliments to our physios and sports scientists. It’s outstanding [to have the whole team fit]. We have managed our load well this season. It’s a great team effort” he said.
Farke was also keen to express the team’s focus is on this next game against QPR, although we’re all aware that the next two home games against Rangers and Reading are a great opportunity for more points.
Up till now, Farke and his assistants have done a terrific job of playing down expectations as well as keeping the players’ feet on the ground. He just needs to do that seven more times.
Sounds simple, eh?
Having said that, this game presents a unique problem in that QPR sacked their manager, Steve McLaren in mid-week, with John Eustace currently in a caretaker role, which means preparing for the game is more difficult than usual.
“It’s always a difficult task to play the first game after the change in this position [Steve McClaren leaving QPR]. You don’t know what will happen with the base formation so it’s hard to prepare” Farke said.
“In this moment some players will come in who were not involved and they want to prove they should be in the starting line-up and players who were involved will want to prove the poor results were not down to them.”
“This team [QPR] was able to be there a few weeks ago with a clean sheet against Leeds, so without any doubt this team has quality.
We have to be respectful because especially in this first game since the change it’s a difficult task.”
With the club and the Evening News announcing a campaign to try to get the River End singing, this morning, Farke also underlined the importance of the crowd and the energy that they provide the players.
“We need all the support and excitement of Carrow Road because it’s so important for the players to feel this.”
“When I think about our kitmen, they are always concerned when there is a day off and they want more sessions to help us be successful. They want to work for our success and when you realise how proud they are and the desire and commitment that they have, then you want to work harder for them.
And when we create this with our fans too it’s an extra 2% motivation to bring the team over the line. “
Daniel also spoke about Michael McGovern signing a new contract and his importance to the squad.
“Michael McGovern is an experienced lad and works hard on training pitch each and every day. He’s in brilliant shape, he’s a professional player and really good for the spirit.”
OTBC