Chrisene Discusses Clement's Management Style
Philippe Clement may appear a hard taskmaster, but Ben Chrisene insists there is a method behind the manager's tough-love approach.
When Clement arrived at Carrow Road last November, he inherited players staring League One football square in the face. The Belgian wasted little time in stamping his authority on the squad, demanding higher standards and delivering some home truths as he set about reviving the Canaries' fortunes. Read more about Duffy Joins Derby as Canaries Prepare for Reunion.
But while Clement may have an intense touchline persona, Chrisene says the manager's character away from the pitch is key to the strong relationships he builds with his players. Read more about Clement Demands Complete Performance as Canaries Target Watford.
Balancing Toughness with Compassion
There is, believe it or not, a softness to him. When you speak to him outside of football, he's an unbelievable person. That's what you need from a manager, I think, the full-back said at a Norwich City Fans Social Club event.
Especially with players, you need that connection off the field as well. He's good at showing that balance, but when it comes to what happens on the pitch, you know he's tough on you.
People call it tough love, but it's definitely more than that. You've got to learn from it as well. He makes sure he's hard, but he's firm but fair.
Chrisene's Journey Under Clement
Chrisene is one of several players to have pushed on under Clement and has become a mainstay in the Norwich side when fit and available. His performances this season have earned him plenty of plaudits, but the young defender believes he still has more strides to make.
Yes, I started the season exactly how I wanted to start. I had my shoulder surgery towards the back end of last season, and the gaffer spoke about how I was a bit worried about the timeline for coming back.
Ben Chrisene has started 10 of Norwich City's 12 Championship games this season. I wanted to start the season, and I managed to. I'm really, really happy with how my season started, Chrisene said.
I think with the results, it's natural that a lot of us will drop off in performance if we're losing. It's just about focusing now and regaining the form I had at the start of the season. The main thing for me is becoming a consistent player who performs week in, week out, every game, and that's what I want to do.
I'm happy, but I can always strive for more, so that's the main thing at the moment.