As Northampton Town prepares to face Norwich City in a pre-season friendly, both teams are eager to test their squads and respective strategies ahead of the 2024-25 season.
Here’s a detailed look at the match prediction, team form, latest news, and potential lineups.
Match Preview
Northampton Town’s Form and News
Northampton Town is gearing up for a second consecutive season in League One, having finished 14th last term under the leadership of Jon Brady. This marked their highest league finish since the 2007-08 season.
The Cobblers have undergone significant changes during the summer transfer window, with notable departures including Louis Appere, Sam Sherring, and Manny Monthe.
To bolster their ranks, they have signed James Wilson, Nik Tzanev, Cameron McGeehan, Jack Baldwin, and loaned Salford City striker Callum Morton.
Norwich City’s Form and News
Norwich City enters this friendly with a new manager, Johannes Thorup, who has been tasked with leading the team back to the Premier League.
Thorup, known for his success with Danish club Nordsjælland, has taken over from David Wagner.
Norwich’s transfer activity includes the addition of Panama centre-back Jose Cordoba. However, key players like Marcelino Nunez and Joshua Sargent are expected to miss out due to international duties.
Additionally, Scotland internationals Angus Gunn, Grant Hanley, and Kenny McLean are unlikely to feature following their Euro 2024 campaign.
Potential Lineups
Northampton Town: Tzanev; Willis, Baldwin, Guthrie; McGowan, Sowerby, McGeehan, Brough; Hoskins, Wilson, Pinnock
Norwich City: Long; Stacey, Duffy, Tomkinson, Fisher; Sara, Sorensen; Fassnacht, Rowe, Sainz; Idah
Match Prediction
Despite Northampton’s commendable efforts to strengthen their squad, Norwich City is expected to have the upper hand due to their superior quality and depth.
The Canaries, even with a potentially weakened side due to international absentees, should still possess enough firepower to secure a victory.
Our Prediction: Northampton Town 0-2 Norwich City