Norwich boss Dean Smith has insisted his sides clash with Brentford isn’t a ‘must win’ but they ‘must not lose’ to aid their fight against relegation.
The Canaries enjoyed a good run of f0rm in January but are without a win in their last five in all competitions, albeit against much stronger opposition.
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They face fellow relegation candidates Brentford on Saturday afternoon, with Thomas Frank’s side also in poor form and without a Premier League win since January 2nd.
A win for the Bees would see them go ten points clear of Norwich but Smith believes has played down calls that his side must win the game.
Speaking to the press ahead of the fixture, Smith said: “It’s a must not lose but we are running out of games.”
Smith, who previously managed Brentford, has praised his former side and the work done by Frank, who assisted him when he was in charge.
“They are a strong squad and they have proved that. If you’ve been promoted then you’ve usually been winning but when you start losing it’s a different feeling.
Dean Smith’s pre-Brentford press conference begins at 9.30am this morning.
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— Norwich City FC (@NorwichCityFC) March 4, 2022
“I had three great years at Brentford. You could see the direction they were going in.
“It’s nice to see Thomas (Frank) as the head coach, having been my assistant.”
Norwich were without a number of first team stars for the midweek FA Cup defeat at Liverpool but Smith has revealed they will be boosted by a some returning defensive reinforcements for the Brentford clash.
“Brandon (Williams) and Max (Aarons) trained yesterday, so they’re both available for tomorrow.
“Ozan (Kabak) has put himself forward for training today.
“Adam Idah and Andrew Omobamidele are the only two still out.”
Smith was also quick to praise defender Christoph Zimmerman who made his first appearance for the club against Liverpool, since the 6-0 Carabao Cup win over Bournemouth in August.
“Zimmermann is a leader, something the squad needs more of.
“He played really well for his first start since Bournemouth.”
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