We spoke to Norwich fan Ryan Wilson (@RyanW1701) for his thoughts on The Canaries, Everton and the upcoming game.
1. How do you feel your season has gone so far?
Disappointing, we have scarcely played to our potential, suffered some poor results (notably poor home results against Swansea, Fulham recently & Villa at the start of the season) which have lessened the impact of our improved away form.
2. After spending circa £30 million in the summer, did you expect more?
I anticipated that it would take time for the new players to settle in, so the slow start wasn’t a shock. Ultimately, it’s a hard question to answer as we’ve had a silly amount of injuries that have disrupted our season; but, yes, we certainly haven’t reached our potential.
3. What are your thoughts on the job Houghton is doing?
If Chris Hughton does enough to keep us in the Premier League next season, he has done his job. Unfortunately, a fair amount of fans have turned against him, so it feels as if his days are numbered no matter what happens. Personally not a fan of the way we set out, but we are grinding out the results when we most need them.
4. Who are your biggest threats?
Gary Hooper is in top form, looks a threat in every game, taking the few opportunities that are coming his way. Other than that, Wes Hoolahan always has a say in what we create going forward (although he may be out injured, or on his way out) and Robert Snodgrass has the ability to score from both open play and set pieces.
5. How do you expect Norwich to set up?
4-2-3-1: Ruddy; Martin, Bennett, Bassong, Olsson; Johnson, Fer; Snodgrass, Elmander, Redmond; Hooper
6. Who do you fear from the Everton side?
Romelu Lukaku was a huge threat and proved to be the difference when we played away at West Brom last season. Everton seem to have goal threats all around the pitch, which is the most worrying thing really. Ross Barkley & Seamus Coleman were influential at Carrow Road and have been terrific throughout the season so they will be feared, along with Kevin Mirallas who is quick and skilful and will chip in with 5-10 goals per season from the wing when fit.
7. Who do you think the weak links are?
Everton’s weak links lie at the back of late, three big defensive injuries in Phil Jagielka, Leighton Baines and Sylvain Distin. Understand the fans are content with Alcaraz and Stones, but they’re a stepdown on your first choice, experienced CB pairing and the two attack minded full backs could leave them in a bit of trouble occasionally.
8. Thoughts on Everton as a club?
Big club, impressive history, playing terrific football, great support – top club in general.
9. Predictions?
With both teams missing big defensive players, I think we will both score. Would like to say we are capable of nicking a point (especially with our impressive record against Everton in the previous years), but I think Everton will win 2-1.