Norwich City’s newly formed defensive pairing, Jakov Medic and Vladan Kovacevic, are determined to establish themselves in the Championship after a challenging start to their campaigns. Both players played pivotal roles in the Canaries' hard-fought 2-1 victory over Portsmouth, with Kovacevic stepping up as the penalty hero and Medic providing essential support during a tense late-game push from the opposition. Read more about Canaries Target Vital Win as Boro Visit Carrow Road.
Despite their contributions against Portsmouth, the duo faced a more daunting challenge in their home debut against Millwall, where they struggled to make a significant impact. Nevertheless, head coach Liam Manning remains optimistic about their potential as they prepare for Saturday’s crucial match at Carrow Road against Middlesbrough.
Reflecting on their experiences thus far, Manning shared, “It makes me smile thinking back to how Jakov was in the changing room afterwards last week. For a few of the boys, it was a slightly new experience playing against someone like Colby Bishop. He is smart, in terms of how he bumps defenders, the little pulls that the referee doesn't see, even some of the things that were quite clear fouls that weren't given in the second half.” Read more about McLean Targets Impactful Return as Norwich Embrace New Era.
Manning highlighted the differences in refereeing standards across various leagues, emphasising the adjustment needed for players like Medic and Kovacevic. “It’s completely different to Denmark, Germany, Portugal—some of the leagues that we've taken lads out of. So, 100% it’s a transition for them to understand what the Championship looks like. I thought they stood up really, really well together on that front.”
Kovacevic himself admitted that the Championship's intensity caught him off guard. “The level of aggression required in the Championship has caught me by surprise,” he noted. Manning added that the goalkeeper’s command of his area has been a focus during training. “Tony Roberts, our keeper coach, has been big on it since we've come in. He's really pushed that and we've tried to integrate certain aspects into training. The fact he's brave enough and aggressive enough to come and do it is huge. It gives confidence to the backline.”
Manning’s commendation of Kovacevic’s performance against Portsmouth illustrates the goalkeeper's capacity to shift a game’s momentum. “Those moments can shift it massively in your favour. You go from their fans being as loud as they are to him taking a catch, and it just quietens it down and gives everybody a bit of a breathing space.”
As Norwich aims to reinforce its defensive unit, the upcoming clash with Middlesbrough offers an ideal opportunity for Medic and Kovacevic to demonstrate their capabilities and adapt to the challenges of English football. Read more about Norwich Finalise Ameen Deal as Swindon Stand Firm.
**Darling Emerges as Key Leader Ahead of Middlesbrough Encounter**
Harry Darling is rapidly establishing himself as a central figure at Norwich City, with his recent performances reflecting his dedication to the club. The 26-year-old, who joined from Swansea on a free transfer, scored his first goal for the Canaries in the recent victory over Portsmouth, solidifying his position as a leader within the defensive ranks.
Having grown up in nearby Cambridge, Darling has integrated seamlessly into the squad, crediting his smooth transition to the welcoming atmosphere created by his teammates and coaching staff. “It's been really smooth to be fair,” he remarked. “I think that's a credit to the management and all of the players. They're a really good group, they're a young group. I've settled in really well and they've welcomed me in.”
Darling's experience in the Championship proves invaluable as Norwich seeks to firm up their defensive structure. “I think we'll be quite fluid this year,” he explained. “I think you'll see us play a five and a four. Obviously at the minute we're playing a five and it's enjoyable. Hopefully we can stop a few goals—I think we've let too many soft ones in at the minute.”
His leadership qualities are evident as he aims to support his fellow defenders, including the newly arrived Medic and Jose Cordoba. “If I can help them in any way I can, then I'd like to do that,” he stated, acknowledging the hurdles that come with adapting to a new league.
With two consecutive away victories under their belts, the Norwich squad is eager to impress their home supporters against a Middlesbrough side yet to concede a goal this season. “They're a really good team,” Darling noted of Boro. “Rob Edwards has gone in and they've had a really good start under him. It's going to be a tough game like every game is in the Championship, so we're expecting a tough test, but hopefully we can come out on top.”
Darling’s message to Norwich fans is clear: their support is vital as the team seeks to build on recent performances. “They've been brilliant—the noise they've created has been unbelievable,” he expressed. “We’re always learning and getting better. You can see that from the last two performances, so just get behind us and hopefully we can reward you.”
As Norwich prepares for this significant encounter, the excitement around Carrow Road is palpable, and the players are ready to rise to the occasion.