Norwich City are preparing for a crucial Championship clash against Watford on Monday evening, with concerns mounting over the fitness of forward Jovon Makama. The 21-year-old sustained an injury during the Canaries' narrow 1-0 victory against Charlton Athletic on Boxing Day, where he netted the decisive goal to secure three vital points.
Head coach Dean Clement provided an update on Makama’s condition, as reported by The Pink Un. "Jov got a big knock. We need to assess if he will be available or not. It was a knock. It was a kick. I don’t want to say where because that helps also the opponent, but we will assess if he’s ready for the game or not," Clement stated. The club is understandably cautious, eager to avoid aggravating the injury ahead of such an important fixture. Read more about Clement Faces Selection Dilemma Ahead of Watford Clash.
Currently, Norwich find themselves in a precarious position, sitting 23rd in the Championship table and firmly entrenched in the relegation zone alongside Sheffield Wednesday and Portsmouth. They are just one point adrift of safety, trailing Oxford United, who occupy the 21st spot. Since Clement took charge in November, following the departure of Liam Manning, there has been a noticeable improvement in results, with the team recording three victories in eight matches. The former Club Brugge, AS Monaco, and Rangers player has secured a contract through to June 2029 and is already making his mark in East Anglia.
Should Makama be unable to feature, it would be a significant blow for Norwich, particularly given his impressive form this season. Since joining from Lincoln City in the summer transfer window, he has quickly adapted to Championship football, scoring eight goals in 22 appearances across all competitions. His journey to Carrow Road has been remarkable; having developed through Derby County’s academy, he excelled at Lincoln, where he found the net 15 times in 97 appearances, also gaining valuable experience during loan spells at Gainsborough Trinity and Brackley Town.
As Norwich prepare to face a Watford side just outside the playoff positions, the team will be eager to have all their key players fit and ready. The Hornets, currently one point behind sixth-placed Bristol City, recently secured a solid 2-1 victory against Leicester City. If Makama is unfit to play, Norwich may look to other attacking options, including Josh Sargent, who has contributed five league goals this season.
With the stakes high and pressure mounting, Norwich City must navigate this critical phase with care as they aim to escape the relegation zone. The outcome of Monday's encounter could prove pivotal in their battle for Championship survival. Read more about Darling Hails McConville's Impact as Canaries Strengthen Defence.