Norwich City are preparing for a crucial encounter against Stoke City this Saturday, determined to turn around a disappointing run that has seen them collect just one point from their last two Championship matches. Following a challenging series of results since the first international break of the 2025-26 season, including a recent 3-1 defeat to Wrexham, the Canaries find themselves in 15th position, three points adrift of the playoff spots currently occupied by Frank Lampard's Coventry City.
In the match against Wrexham, Jovon Makama netted his first goal for Norwich, yet his achievement was overshadowed by a brace from summer signing Josh Windass. This defeat has heightened the scrutiny on head coach Liam Manning, who is under pressure due to a lack of victories—only one in the last five matches across all competitions. Norwich’s home form has been particularly concerning, with the team losing all four competitive fixtures at Carrow Road this season. However, they have demonstrated resilience away from home, remaining unbeaten in their last four matches, which includes a commendable 1-1 draw against Coventry earlier this month.
In terms of team news, Norwich will be without Papa Amadou Diallo for several months due to a quad injury sustained during the Wrexham match. The Senegalese winger was substituted early in the second half and is set to undergo surgery before beginning his rehabilitation process.
Manning also provided an update on captain Kenny McLean, who missed the Wrexham fixture due to a back injury. He remarked, “Kenny's progressing, he's getting better. He's experienced and knows his body well. We'll have to see how he responds, but there is a possibility for this weekend.” Despite this positive news, McLean has had limited training this week as the club takes a cautious approach to his recovery.
Further complicating Manning's selection are the absences of Ben Chrisene, Mathias Kvistgaarden, and Amankwah Forson, all of whom remain unavailable for selection.
For the upcoming match against Stoke, Manning is expected to make two changes to the starting lineup. With Diallo sidelined, Kellen Fisher is likely to step in, while Jack Stacey will shift to the left wing-back position. The most significant alteration will see Makama earn his first start, following an impressive display that culminated in his debut goal last weekend.
The predicted Norwich City lineup for the encounter at Stoke includes: Kovacevic in goal; a back three composed of Medic, Darling, and Cordoba; wing-backs Fisher and Stacey; a midfield trio of Mattsso, Topic, and Jurasek; with Makama and Sargent leading the attack.
As Norwich aim to break free from their recent struggles, all eyes will be on Makama as he looks to build on his initial goal and help propel the Canaries back into contention for promotion. A positive outcome against Stoke could provide the necessary momentum to reinvigorate their ambitions for the season.