Harry Darling is determined to build on his encouraging debut season with Norwich City after netting his first goal for the club during Saturday's match against Portsmouth. The centre-back made a significant impact at Fratton Park, converting a header from Marcelino Nunez's free-kick into the bottom corner, breaking the deadlock and showcasing his potential as a valuable asset to the team.
Darling's goal serves as a vivid reminder of his scoring capabilities. During his previous tenure under head coach Liam Manning at MK Dons, he achieved an impressive tally of ten goals in a single season. Now reunited with Manning at Norwich, there is optimism that he can mirror or even surpass that success. The manager has highlighted the importance of defenders contributing during set-pieces, a strategy that appears to be yielding positive results early in the season. Read more about Manning Demands Right-Back Clarity as Competition Intensifies.
“It definitely helps,” Darling commented regarding his early goal. “I want to add a few goals to my game, and luckily I've done that so early on. I want to add a few more, so hopefully in the course of the season I can do that.”
Reflecting on his notable scoring record from the previous season, he remarked, “That was a really good year for myself. I like to add goals into my game, and obviously I've got one early doors, so hopefully I can get a few more.”
Darling's aspirations are clear: “If I can score a goal, I'll score a goal. But the gaffer is so keen on letting the boys up front express themselves and try different things, and it's our job at the back to get the ball to them. We want to do that well, and I think we've done it well at times, but I think we need to do it for longer, and that's something we want to try and do.”
The decision to appoint Manning as head coach has been significant for Darling, especially after he garnered interest from various Championship clubs following his exit from Swansea. “I think his man management is really good,” Darling said of Manning. “I think I had one of my best years with him at MK, so when I knew he was going to be the manager here, it definitely was a big plus. If I can have another year like I did last time with him then it'll be good for all parties.” Read more about McLean Set for Training Return After Ankle Surgery.
As Darling seeks to maintain his scoring momentum, the Canaries are poised for a promising season ahead. Read more about Doyle Set for Wrexham Move as Canaries Stand Down.