Kenny McLean, the Scottish midfielder for Norwich City, has expressed his sincere gratitude towards the club’s medical team, highlighting their pivotal role in his swift recovery from injury. His comments come amid ongoing concerns regarding player fitness, a challenge that has been particularly pronounced in recent seasons.
In response to the rising injury issues, sporting director Ben Knapper has announced plans for an external review of the club's medical practices. McLean has been managing a persistent hip problem, which forced him to leave the pitch at half-time during the recent 1-1 draw against Sheffield United. Remarkably, he made a swift return just three days later, playing a key role in Norwich’s impressive 3-0 victory over Southampton. Read more about Norwich City Spread Festive Cheer at Local Hospice.
With a busy festive schedule on the horizon, McLean recognises the importance of careful management to sustain his fitness levels. Reflecting on his experiences, he told The Pink'un: "I've obviously seen a lot of things about our medical department and the injuries that we've got. I think if you look at a lot of the injuries and stuff, when we've got long-term injuries, it's nobody's fault what's happening. What I can say is the medical department, and quite a few games this season now, are the only reason that I've made the pitch." Read more about Mattsson and Clement Spread Festive Cheer at Local Hospital.
He continued, "I've had to give big thanks to them. They managed to get me back out there on Saturday again. Right now, I'm feeling pretty good, so I think over the next couple of weeks, it's obviously a busy period, so it'll be about managing myself and then maybe getting into the New Year and seeing where I'm at, what I need to do with my body and stuff like that, because I still feel good."
As the team navigates the demanding nature of Championship football, McLean defended the efforts of the medical staff. “I think most weeks there'll be somebody who's going to be struggling with an injury or struggling with some issue that the medical department, the sports science lads, they're the ones that make sure we're right and that's what's happened with me recently,” he remarked.
The 31-year-old provided insight into his experience during the Sheffield United match, stating, “As I say, obviously, it's something you don't want to mention, don't want to speak about, but obviously I came off in the Sheffield United game because it got a bit much. They turned me around in three days and got me to play a part in a game on Saturday that was pretty good.”
Looking ahead to the upcoming fixture against Preston North End, McLean is focused on maintaining his fitness. "We've got a Saturday-Saturday game now, week to week, good weeks working, and we're ready to go for Preston," he said optimistically. Read more about Canaries Target FA Youth Cup Glory Against Burnley.
With McLean's resilience and the steadfast support from the medical team, Norwich City are well-equipped to tackle the challenges that lie ahead.