Norwich City column: Transformed Burnley side set to provide the biggest test of the David Wagner era so far

It says a lot about the impact David Wagner has had in his short time as Norwich City head coach that we are even considering promotion to still be a possibility.

Prior to the German’s arrival, you’d have been hard-pressed to find any City fan who genuinely believed that this season could still end with the Canaries making an instant return to the Premier League.

But the nature of the back-to-back wins at Preston and Coventry have transformed the mood around the club – and installed a real sense of belief and optimism that we can achieve our ultimate goal come the end of May.

If we’re honest, the automatic promotion places are probably out of reach. Barring a miraculous turn of events, the 15-point gap to second place Sheffield United is insurmountable.

As is the 20-point gap to table toppers-Burnley – who visit Carrow Road this weekend.

It’s been difficult not to be impressed by Vincent Kompany’s side, as I wrote prior to the reverse fixture earlier in the season. Their transformation into a proper footballing side under the Belgian has been nothing short of remarkable.

For me, they are by far the best team in the division. Not only do I expect them to canter towards the title – but I don’t think they’ll have any issues surviving in the Premier League.

With the greatest respect to Preston and Coventry, there is no doubt tomorrow’s match-up provides the biggest test of the Wagner era. Three points would be a real statement to the rest of the division.

Wagner will be able to call upon new signing Marquinhos – January’s sole arrival – as well as Christos Tzolis, who returns having been recalled from his loan at FC Twente.

I’m really hopeful that, under the guidance of Wagner, Tzolis will be able to find the kind of form that saw us splash out nearly £9 million to secure his services in the summer of 2021.