Norwich City are set to face Queens Park Rangers at Loftus Road this afternoon, with head coach Philippe Clement making notable adjustments to the starting lineup. In a move aimed at revitalising the squad, Clement has introduced three new faces, including Jose Cordoba, who is poised to make his first start under the Belgian manager, stepping in for Harry Darling.
Joining Cordoba in the lineup are Matej Jurasek, who replaces Tony Springett on the right wing, and Ben Chrisene, returning at left-back in place of Lucien Mahovo. These changes follow a disappointing 1-0 defeat to Watford earlier this week, reflecting a clear intent to enhance Norwich's attacking threat.
In a positive development, Jovon Makama, who had been a doubt due to illness, has been named on the bench, providing a welcome boost as Norwich look to tap into his scoring potential. He is joined by Emiliano Marcondes and Mathias Kvistgaarden, both of whom add valuable options to the squad.
The matchday squad will miss Liam Gibbs, sidelined after a brief appearance against Watford. Jakov Medic has travelled to London but will not feature in the 20-man squad. Amankwah Forson continues his recovery from a hamstring injury sustained during a match against Preston, with Clement indicating that his return may take several weeks. Shane Duffy is also out due to a separate hamstring issue, although surgery will not be required.
Clement's side must also contend with the absence of Gabriel Forsyth, Jeffrey Schlupp, and Papa Amadou Diallo, all of whom are unlikely to return soon. However, Diallo is expected to resume training later this month, which could provide a timely boost.
For QPR, former Norwich loanee Isaac Hayden will start, while Jonathan Varane, a player previously linked with Norwich, has been named among the substitutes.
**Starting Line-ups:**
- **Queens Park Rangers**: Nardi; Mbengue, Dunne (C), Cook, Norrington-Davies; Hayden, Madsen; Dembele, Smyth, Burrell; Kone. **SUBS**: Hamer (GK), Morrison, Field, Morgan, Vale, Varane, Kolli, Poku, Saito.
- **Norwich City**: Kovacevic; Fisher, McConville, Cordoba, Chrisene; Mattsson, McLean (C); Jurasek, Wright, Schwartau; Sargent. **SUBS**: Grimshaw (GK), Stacey, Darling, Mahovo, Springett, Slimane, Marcondes, Makama, Kvistgaarden.
As Norwich aim to escape the Championship relegation zone, today's fixture presents a crucial opportunity to gain momentum and secure vital points. The Canaries will be looking to rise to the challenge and deliver a strong performance against a QPR side that has shown impressive form at home.