Norwich City column: Russell Martin obvious candidate to be next manager after correct decision to not appoint Jack Wilshere

Two weeks on from the end of the season – and nearly a month since the departure of Johannes Hoff Thorup – it appears Norwich City are no closer to appointing a new head coach.

Like most, I was fully convinced the job would be given to Jack Wilshere, given his relationship with Ben Knapper and his desire to make the step up.

And in truth I’d warmed to the idea, having initially been sceptical, owing to the positive end to the campaign.

But in an interview last week, Knapper revealed Wilshere wasn’t in the running for the vacancy – with the search focused on more experienced candidates.

A sensible decision in the end, I would argue, given the size of the task facing the club this summer, but it does leave us back at square one.

Admittedly, with pre-season not beginning until the end of June, there is no immediate rush to make an appointment, but we certainly don’t want the issue dragging on any longer than it needs to as we prepare for August.

For all intents and purposes, it appears Knapper wants to take his time – a possible indication that there may be several candidates under consideration whose seasons are yet to, or have very recently, finished.

I don’t think anyone would be greatly surprised if we carry an interest in Bristol City’s Liam Manning, for example.

For me, the obvious candidate remains Russell Martin, even if there has yet to be any contact between the two parties, as reports suggest.

Away from the search for a head coach, it is great news to see that Jacob Wright’s permanent move to the club is set to be completed.

The 19-year-old excelled during his loan spell, growing game-by-game into a player whose performances began to belittle his lack of experience.

And at £2.3m, the deal represents a real bargain for a player who will undoubtedly form a key part of next season’s team, whoever the head coach may be.