Norwich City may receive a boost ahead of their clash with Sunderland this weekend as goalkeeper Angus Gunn is expected to be available for selection.
Gunn, who faced an FA charge earlier this week for alleged improper conduct near the tunnel during halftime in Norwich’s recent loss to QPR, had until Thursday to respond. However, according to local reports, the FA is unlikely to rule on the case before the weekend, allowing Gunn to play in Saturday’s match at the Stadium of Light.
Should Gunn face a last-minute suspension, George Long is set to step in. However, as of now, Gunn remains eligible. Norwich head coach Johannes Hoff Thorup addressed the situation, emphasizing the need for clarity and fairness regarding disciplinary decisions. He expressed frustration over the timing of suspensions, referencing a previous instance where Kenny McLean’s FA ban was enacted just hours before a match against Portsmouth.
“I don’t think any team should face a suspension being imposed on the same day as a game,” Thorup said. “If his behavior was unacceptable, we respect that, but there should be clear rules. In some countries, players are allowed to play until a decision is finalized, which provides clarity for planning.”
Thorup added that all teams deserve transparency in such matters, particularly given the demanding schedule. “It’s about fair play. Clubs need to know whether they can count on a player or not,” he concluded.
The Championship match between Sunderland and Norwich City is scheduled for 3 pm on Saturday at the Stadium of Light.
