Norwich City are facing a significant challenge following the Football Association's (FA) decision to impose a six-match suspension on forward Borja Sainz. This disciplinary action, which also includes a £12,000 fine, stems from a spitting incident during the Canaries' Championship defeat against Sunderland. The suspension will take immediate effect, beginning with the FA Cup third-round fixture against Brighton.
The controversy surrounding this incident has cast a shadow over the club since the FA investigation was first reported after their draw against QPR on December 29. The incident occurred during Norwich's loss at the Stadium of Light, and manager Johannes Hoff Thorup had been bracing for the potential repercussions, knowing that Sainz, currently the Championship's top scorer and a crucial asset to the team, would be sidelined for an extended period.
With the ban now confirmed, Thorup faces the daunting task of devising strategies to cope without Sainz during a critical stretch of fixtures. Norwich's upcoming schedule includes league matches against Sheffield United, Leeds, Swansea, Derby, and Watford, with Sainz not eligible to return until February 11 against Preston. His absence is particularly concerning given Norwich's ongoing struggles with consistency this season, and Sainz's pivotal contributions during a successful autumn run.
Despite his earlier successes, which included consecutive EFL Player of the Month awards, Sainz has not found the net since December and has faced scrutiny regarding his recent form. "He's struggling a little bit to find a way to deal with the fact that he's now one of our most important players," Thorup noted prior to the New Year's Day match against Luton Town. "The opposition know that every time we play, so that's another step in his career."
This suspension may provide Sainz with an opportunity to step back from the spotlight, allowing him time to regroup and recalibrate away from defenders keen to neutralise his influence and clubs that may be considering a potential transfer. However, his absence will undoubtedly embolden opposing teams, who can no longer rely on the straightforward tactic of 'marking Sainz'.
Thorup will need to assess his options for filling the void left by Sainz. Onel Hernandez, primarily a right-sided player, has previously thrived on the left during Daniel Farke's championship-winning campaign and could be a viable replacement. Emiliano Marcondes, who has shown a preference for a central role since joining as a free agent in October, may also be considered, although this would leave the squad lacking in experienced options.
In light of the situation, Norwich have sought to bolster their squad by securing Lewis Dobbin on loan from Aston Villa until the end of the season. While Dobbin may be viewed as a replacement for the recently departed Christian Fassnacht, his experience on the left flank could prove invaluable as the team navigates this challenging period.
The confirmation of Sainz's suspension adds yet another layer of complexity to a season already marked by unpredictability for Norwich City. As the club embarks on a long-term rebuilding process, the immediate imperative for the remaining squad members is to rise to the occasion in Sainz's absence and maintain their competitive edge. The coming weeks will be crucial for Norwich as they seek to adapt and continue their pursuit of success in the Championship.