Norwich City were outclassed by Burton Albion, with a 2-1 score line, which further pushed them behind in their chase for the playoff spots. Fulham are also mounting pressure on Alex Neil & co. for getting into the top six, and considering that the league is far from over, the Canaries will still believe that they have an outside chance.
Norwich City host Ipswich Town for the East Anglian derby on 26th of February for what isn’t merely a battle for three points, but the bragging rights which comes along with winning a derby is also at stake. It is a huge game for Neil’s troops and here is how they might fork out their starting XI when they face the Tractor Boys.
Defence
John Ruddy is expected to start with the gloves in the Old Farm derby, with a quartet of defenders lying ahead of him. On the right and left back slots, we expect Steven Whittaker and Mitchell Dijks, respectively. While Whittaker is a proven veteran, Dijks has been outstanding for the yellow army this season, making speedy runs down the left flank to beef up their attacking endeavours and tracking back with sheer professionalism and his industry which would come handy against Mick McCarthy’s outfit.
At the heart of their defence, we expect the trusted central defensive pairing of Russell Martin and Timm Klose. The duo has been quite resilient and will have to be at the top pf their game this weekend.
Midfield
Alexander Tettey and Jonathan Wilson are expected to hold the midfield together and cushion the four-man defensive line. Jacob Murphy is likely to be engineered on the right wing as he has been in a fine nick this season, scoring 6 goals, bagging 6 assists and creating 27 chances and on the left wing, new big money signing in the shape of Yanic Wildschut should start the proceedings to embark upon his pace, tenacity and exuberance. Alex Pritchard should get a nod once again for catering to the role of a no. 10.
Attack
Despite the availability of Steven Naismith, Alex Neil is likely to continue with Cameron Jerome up front to steer past Ipswich Town. The 30-year-old has found the back of the net on 11 occasions alongside having 3 assists as well and would be a safe bet as a striker at the Carrow Road this weekend.
Ruddy
Whittaker-Martin-Klose-Dijks
Howson-Tettey
Murphy-Pritchard-Wildschut
Jerome
