Its six years since the Canaries were last in the Premier League and few would argue the league has missed the side that actually played in the inaugural season of the reformed top flight back in 1992. Norwich City returned to the top flight in 2004-05, but relegation was confirmed on the last day of the season after a 6-0 defeat to Fulham. But it is the current regime under Paul Lambert that will be looking to erase those memories on that painful day in West London in May 2005 and after a wonderful season and back to back promotions, Canary fans will relish the opportunity of visits to the likes of Old Trafford, The Emirates, Stamford Bridge and Anfield.
It is important to note, that the Canaries’ back to back promotion was the first time any club had achieved the feat since Manchester City in 1999 and look where they are now. The impact of promotion will have its financial rewards from the television coverage and worldwide publicity for the club. But what can we expect to see from Norwich City on the pitch?
Well Lambert has developed a side that displays all the best attributes required to succeed within the top flight; good work rate, belief, power, pace and perhaps most importantly a style of play that exuberates attractive football. There are of course more attributes akin to ensuring premier league survival, but what is rather poignant is the way Norwich play. Their style of football could actually make them a surprise package next season in the Premier League.
The 2010-11 season saw the media and fans revel in Blackpool’s exciting brand of counter-attacking football, they were a refreshing addition to the league and I believe Norwich under Lambert and with the side he is looking to build could go one better than Ian Holloway’s men and not only stay up next season, but finish in a creditable position as the foundations of good passing football and belief is there. The models of West Brom and Wolves are examples of sides that too have come up and not been afraid to change their status quo.
The signing of James Vaughan from Everton, a proven goal scorer at the top level and the imminent arrival of Steve Morison from Millwall, alongside the pace and power of Simeon Jackson and Grant Holt – just adds to the firepower that Norwich will posses next season. And with over 35 points amassed in the last 10 minutes of games last season, the belief, work rate and never-say-die attitude within the squad is one that cannot be underestimated my opposition sides.
It has been an incredible achievement for Paul Lambert, a once Champions League winner with Borussia Dortmund, has yet to play or manage in Premier League and will finally get his chance. A renowned passer of the ball and midfield anchorman looks set to stamp his own authority on Barclays Premier League; it appears old habits die hard when it comes to his style of play.
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