Forson back in contention as Chrisene and Stacey sidelined | Liam provides squad update ahead of Hull trip
Norwich City head coach Liam Manning has delivered a mixed fitness update ahead of Saturday’s key Championship meeting with Hull City at Carrow Road, with midfielder Amankwah Forson returning to full training while defenders Ben Chrisene and Jack Stacey remain sidelined.
Forson, who suffered a hamstring injury on the opening day of the season, is back in the frame after an extended spell out. The 20-year-old Ghana international, a summer signing from Ajax, impressed during pre-season and could feature for the first time under Manning, offering creativity and energy in midfield.
However, the return of Forson is offset by fresh setbacks elsewhere. Stacey, a consistent presence at right-back, sustained a concussion during training earlier this week after falling awkwardly and will be unavailable under concussion protocols. It’s his second such incident this season following a similar issue in August’s defeat to Middlesbrough. Manning stressed the need for caution, saying: “We’re taking every precaution with Jack – these things can’t be rushed.”
On the opposite flank, Chrisene faces a short spell out after suffering a minor hamstring issue during his recovery. The on-loan Fulham defender had been nearing a return but will now be out for a couple more weeks, leaving Norwich short of options on the left.
With the Canaries winless in the league since August and struggling near the bottom of the table, Saturday’s clash carries extra significance. Manning urged his side to respond with focus and intent: “We’ve got quality in the building, and players like Amankwah coming back give us that edge. It’s about executing now – no excuses.”
Elsewhere, forward Mathias Kvistgaarden (knee) remains a longer-term absentee, meaning Manning may need to reshuffle his defence or turn to academy talent such as Gabriel Forsyth. Kick-off is at 12:30 GMT, with Norwich aiming to end a run of eight defeats and reignite their promotion hopes.