Schwartau misses: Norwich City team news and predicted XI to face Birmingham City News: The72 – Football League News

Norwich City host Birmingham City in the Championship as two of the division’s best sides face off.

Norwich City arrive in strong form, having won seven of their last eight games in all competitions, and are emerging as a revived force under Philippe Clement, who is quietly leading the Canaries to an unlikely late push for the top six.

Confidence is high at Carrow Road after last weekend’s FA Cup success, which saw goals from Paris Maghoma, Ben Chrisene and winter signing Mohamed Toure secured progression at the expense of West Bromwich Albion.

Norwich’s league form has also improved significantly, with the only points dropped coming in the last six Championship games against promotion chasers Middlesbrough. That run has taken them to 17th place, seven points clear of the relegation zone.

Early struggles mean the Canaries still have one of the weaker home records in the division, but Clement’s side have recently turned Carrow Road into a fortress, winning four straight games and scoring 12 goals.

Much of that attacking momentum has come from Toure, who has made an immediate impact since joining from Randers. He scored five goals in his first three appearances, including a hat-trick at Oxford United.

Birmingham City, meanwhile, travel to East Anglia to chase their own momentum as they continue their quest for the Championship play-off places.

Norwich City team news

As reported by the PinkUnParis Maghoma is still building towards full competition fitness. The midfielder is not yet ready to complete 90 minutes under the current demands of the team’s playing style.

Clement admitted that the situation is understandable given his lack of playing time, saying: ‘He knows he hasn’t played much football this season’ as he emphasizes patience as he works his way to full sharpness.

Elsewhere, Harry Amass remains on loan at Norwich City, with the club continuing to monitor his recovery closely in partnership with his parent club. Clemens confirmed: “We are working on his rehabilitation alongside Manchester United.”

There was more positive news on the injury front: goalkeeper Vladan Kovacevic was available again and Jakov Medic returned to training. Amankwah Forson has also taken a step forward after his first full week with the team.

However, Oscar Schwartau will be on the sidelines for a short period after a hamstring injury. The problem is not considered serious, but he is expected to miss a few weeks.

Clement explained the setback and said: “He had his biggest sprint yet at the club and then he felt his hamstring.”

Predicted XI

(4-2-3-1)

Grimshaw; Fisher, McConville, Cordoba, Chrisene; McLean, Field; Gibbs, Ben Slimane, Ahmed; Toure

Only one change from the last league match for NCFC. The change is forced on Clement due to Schwartau’s injury.

January addition Ali Ahmed replaces the 19-year-old. Ahmed has impressed since arriving at Norwich City.

Ali Ahmed’s Championship Stats

Toure retains his place up front and looks to continue his excellent form. He is one of two successors to Josh Sargent, who now appears to be ready to move to Toronto FC.