Anis Although Ben Slimane has shown that he is more than just a squad player, Norwich City’s management will want to exercise caution when considering a panic loan because of his present ailment.
It’s clear that the Tunisian international has established himself as a vital element of Johannes Hoff Thorup’s team, as he is reportedly on the verge of joining the Norwich team permanently.
Due to an ankle ligament injury, Slimane has been sidelined for at least a month. This is not the first time this season that his fitness has prevented him from playing.
Although Slimane’s injury history may worry some City supporters, his recent and past performances indicate that a January raid is not necessary to make up for his absence.
For Norwich City, Anis Ben Slimane has established himself as a reliable performer.
Ben Knapper, the sporting director, said he has a “slightly different profile” from the current team and summer additions when he first joined the Canaries.
He is much more of a steely central midfielder than players like Oscar Schwartau and Amankwah Forson, who are more technical and cunning.
With a few errant passes here and there and a noteworthy inability to commit a tactical foul that would have allowed Middlesborough to score, it wouldn’t be incorrect to suggest that he isn’t quite the whole package just yet.
However, it’s easy to forget that he’s only 23 and has made more than 150 club appearances. It’s difficult to find an experienced player who can still adapt to management’s needs.
He is a player who, if the manager stays in charge, will have a bright future at Carrow Road given his prior experience with Thorup in the academy system at Akademisk Boldklub.
Anis There is no need to replace Ben Slimane this month.
The depth of Norwich City’s roster has been discussed a lot this season, but injuries and suspensions early in the season made it plain that further transfer windows are undoubtedly required to get the team to where Knapper and Thorup want it.
Given that midfielders are the position where the majority of the Canaries’ current injuries are concentrated, there is also some concern about their specific lack of depth.
Knapper should avoid the temptation to sign a temporary replacement for the absent midfield player, even though Emi Marcondes, Kenny McLean, Marcelino Nunez, and Forson appear to be the only four clear choices now forming the midfield three.
Forson’s injury to Slimane gives him the ideal chance to advance in his Norwich career. It’s important to remember that his heroics in stoppage time against Coventry gave him a boost of confidence, and extending his playing time can only help him grow.
Academy youngsters like Uriah Djedje may be able to cover some bench space during Slimane’s brief absence, giving them a chance to experience playing first team football.
Although it’s risky to not bring in a replacement for Slimane, Thorup should have more faith in his current team than search for a temporary solution.
