Philippe Clement's recent appointment as Norwich City manager has sparked enthusiasm among supporters, particularly given the club's current struggles in the Championship. His first day at the training ground in Colney was captured in a video that offered valuable insights into his management style and the challenges he faces in steering the team away from the relegation zone. Read more about Clement Targets Revival as Canaries Face Birmingham.
Here are five key takeaways from Clement's inaugural day that Norwich fans should note: Read more about Clement Targets Tactical Overhaul as Canaries Struggle.
**1. A Clear Acknowledgment of Second-Half Struggles**
Clement wasted no time addressing one of the most pressing issues afflicting Norwich this season: their alarming performances in the second half of matches. He pointed out a concerning statistic, stating, "82pc of goals against, second half." This observation reflects his keen understanding of the team's difficulties and sets the groundwork for his expectations as he aims to rectify these issues. Read more about Van Der Heyden Joins Norwich as Assistant Coach.
**2. An Optimistic Vision for the Squad's Potential**
Despite the club's challenging position, Clement articulated his reasons for joining Norwich during a team meeting, emphasising his belief in the squad's latent potential. "I come because I see much more potential out of this group than what I saw in the games or in moments of the games," he asserted. This optimistic outlook marks a shift away from negativity and could serve as a motivational spark for the players.
**3. High Standards for Fitness and Attitude**
Clement, who has previously enjoyed success in top European leagues, is setting demanding expectations from the outset. He stressed that only individuals with a "hungry, ambitious" approach will thrive under his guidance. "If you want to play, you need to be hungry, ambitious people in everything," he insisted. This focus on a strong work ethic is crucial for a club aiming for a return to the Premier League.
**4. Unexpected Results from Fitness Tests**
The training session included a bleep test that unveiled surprising performances, particularly from Jacob Wright and Jakov Medic. Wright, who has had limited exposure this season, notably excelled, finishing among the highest performers. This revelation may prompt Clement to reassess his squad selections as he evaluates who can best contribute to his plans.
**5. Emphasis on Communication During Training**
Clement identified a significant lack of communication on the training pitch, a fundamental element for any successful team. He critiqued the players for their quietness during drills, stating, "When you have the ball in the middle, I don’t hear any coaching in the middle or almost nothing." His call for increased dialogue and teamwork will be essential as he aims to foster a more cohesive mentality within the squad.
Clement's first day has set a promising tone for his tenure at Norwich City. His clear vision and commitment to improvement suggest that supporters may be witnessing the beginning of a revitalising era at Carrow Road.