Coventry City are set to resume their Championship campaign with a home match against Norwich City at the CBS Arena this Saturday, following a brief pause for international fixtures. Manager Frank Lampard has been diligently preparing his squad, aiming to extend the Sky Blues' unbeaten streak, which currently stands at two wins and two draws from their first four matches. Read more about Norwich Reject Burnley’s £10m Bid for Sargent.
Norwich City, on the other hand, have had a challenging start to their season. After suffering disappointing defeats in their initial two home games against Millwall and Middlesbrough, the Canaries managed to regain their form with commendable away victories over Portsmouth and Blackburn. This resurgence has instilled a sense of optimism among supporters, as the team looks to build momentum. Read more about Rhodes Retires, Joins Blackburn as Loans Manager.
As Coventry prepare for this critical clash, updates on player fitness are essential. Most of Lampard's squad are nearing full fitness, although concerns persist regarding several key players.
**Jay Dasilva** is facing a tight race against time to recover for Saturday's fixture after withdrawing from the Wales squad due to a minor ankle injury sustained during a match against Oxford. His potential absence would be significant for Coventry, as he is regarded as their primary left-back. However, there is cautious optimism that he may be fit enough to participate against Norwich.
**Josh Eccles**, another crucial member of the team, is on the mend from a severe dead leg sustained last season. Lampard noted that Eccles has made notable progress, having recently played for the Under-21 side. “He’ll get some game time and be ready for after the international break, we hope, all being well,” Lampard stated, suggesting that Eccles could be fit for a place on the bench this weekend.
In terms of other injuries, **Kyle McFadzean** is still in the process of rehabilitation. Lampard indicated that McFadzean is “a bit behind” Eccles in terms of recovery, casting doubt on his availability as the match approaches.
The most pressing concern remains long-term injury victim **Oliver Dovin**, who is recovering from a cruciate knee ligament rupture. Lampard has previously mentioned that Dovin's recovery timeline suggests a potential return in January, but he added, “We hope it could be quicker, maybe it could be later, but we have to do everything right."
As the Sky Blues aim to build on their promising start to the season, the possible return of key players could be crucial against a Norwich side eager to establish their footing. With both teams vying for essential points, Saturday's match promises to be a captivating encounter.