Norwich City manager Philippe Clement has delivered a positive injury update as midfielder Paris Maghoma returns to full training. The news comes ahead of the Canaries' Championship trip to face Stoke City on Tuesday, with the squad emerging unscathed from their weekend win over Burnley. Clement told reporters that the club must now decide if Maghoma is ready for immediate selection.
Philippe Clement stated that no new fitness issues arose from the 1-0 victory against Burnley. "After this game also there was not any problem with any of the players," the Norwich boss confirmed. This leaves the manager with a largely fit group as his side, currently 16th in the Championship with three points from three games, prepares for a busy schedule.
Paris Maghoma's return to group training is a significant step in his recovery. The midfielder has been among the players listed as currently sidelined, a group that also includes Ali Ahmed, Jovon Makama, Lucien Mahovo, and Mirko Topić. Clement explained the decision facing the coaching staff regarding the Stoke match. "Paris was today back in training with the group, so we need to decide if we take him in the selection or not towards tomorrow, or if we train him a few days more," he said. This suggests a comeback is imminent, whether at the bet365 Stadium or in a subsequent match.
Forward Jovon Makama is also making steady progress, though Tuesday's fixture will come too soon for him. Clement provided an update on the attacker's condition, indicating he is integrating back into team drills. "Jovon is doing more and more work with the group," Clement noted. He added, "It’s going to be too early to take him in the selection for tomorrow, but he’s also in a good spot." Makama's continued rehabilitation is being managed carefully as Norwich look to bolster their attacking options for the challenges ahead.
The returns of Maghoma and, in time, Makama will be welcome for a squad handling the early season. Norwich have scored five goals but conceded six in their opening three league outings, leaving them with a minus-one goal difference. Adding a creative midfielder like Maghoma could help address this balance. The team sits six points behind early leaders Charlton. Clement's options are gradually expanding, which is vital for managing the Championship's demanding fixture list. Fans can track the availability of all players on our injuries section.
The immediate focus is the away match at Stoke City on September 1st. Securing a positive result there could help Norwich climb from their mid-table position. The broader context sees the club needing to convert performances into points to close the gap at the top. With key players nearing returns, Clement will hope to have a fuller squad at his disposal soon. This increased competition for places should benefit the team as they aim to improve on a recent form line of win, loss, loss. Supporters can follow the team's progress in the standings as the season develops.
