Norwich City manager Johannes Hoff Thorup has expressed frustration over the FA’s handling of Kenny McLean’s four-match ban, which was imposed just before the team’s match against Burnley. Thorup described the situation as unsatisfactory, leaving Norwich without a key player during the demanding festive period.
McLean received the suspension after an off-the-ball incident in Norwich’s 3-0 loss to QPR in early December. The clash with QPR winger Kieran Morgan, which resulted in the teenager falling to the ground, went unnoticed by match officials but was later reviewed by the FA. Initially handed a three-match ban for violent conduct, McLean’s suspension was increased to four games due to it being his second dismissal of the season.
Thorup Criticizes Timing of Decision
Ahead of Norwich’s upcoming match against promotion contenders Sunderland, Thorup voiced his displeasure with the FA’s late notification of McLean’s ban. Speaking via the club’s official X account, Thorup said:
“Overall, we were not satisfied with how the decision was handled, especially because it was made so late. That was our biggest concern. However, we are a football club playing in a league with rules we must follow.”
Thorup referred specifically to the timing of the FA’s announcement, which informed the club of McLean’s suspension for the Portsmouth game at 3:00 PM on the day of the 7:45 PM kickoff. This left the team with minimal time to adjust their lineup and prepare McLean’s replacement. Norwich have since struggled in McLean’s absence, securing just one point from two matches without their influential midfielder.
Key Absence During a Crucial Period
The timing of McLean’s ban has added to Thorup’s challenges as he looks to manage his squad during the congested festive fixture list. While he can rotate players in other areas, McLean’s importance in midfield makes his absence particularly significant.
Norwich have failed to win a single game without McLean this season, highlighting his impact on the team. With this being his second four-match ban of the campaign, Thorup will undoubtedly hope his captain can improve his discipline moving forward.
