Norwich City column: Club waiting on news of Josh Sargent’s fitness after keeping hold of American striker during summer transfer window
While much of the early season discourse has been around incomings and outgoings, perhaps Norwich City’s best piece of summer business was retaining the services of Josh Sargent.
The USA international was reportedly the subject of interest from MLS and Premier League clubs during the transfer window – on the back of the most prolific goalscoring campaign of his career so far.
But thankfully our number nine remains at Carrow Road, ready to spearhead the Johannes Hoff Thorup era.
The first few weeks of the season have been revealing in many ways. But for me, one of the biggest takeaways has been just how important Sargent is to the cause. It’s hardly rocket science to say successful teams score plenty of goals - and with the exception of maybe Borja Sainz, it’s difficult to see anyone other than Sargent hitting double figures.
That’s why it was a concern to see the 24-year-old miss out on USA’s friendly with New Zealand on Tuesday night with what was described as an ankle irritation.
Hopefully his withdrawal is nothing more than a precaution, but given his fitness struggles last season, it’s difficult not to be slightly worried.
While I would describe the transfer window as a success, ultimately we are short of quality options in the final third, especially as new signing Ante Crnac gets up to speed following his move from Poland. It’s also worth remembering he is only 20 years old.
At the other end of the spectrum is Ashley Barnes – and while there is a lot to admire about the 34-year-old, there are certainly limitations to his game.
I’m sure we’ll receive more news on Sargent’s fitness when our head coach speaks to the media before tomorrow’s trip to Swansea. The Canaries make the long journey to south Wales hoping to build upon a first win of the campaign at Coventry a fortnight ago.
Should they do so, the shoots of optimism starting to surround this season will continue to grow.
