NCISA Forum

NCISA would like to thank all of those that attended the excellent Forum on Tuesday 13th April, and NCISA would also like to pass on their sincere thanks to NCFC and to the three players that gave up their own time to allow this to happen.

For those that were not able to attend here are a few examples of the questions and answers.

The answers do not represent direct quotes.

Q. As players, are you always conscious of being a role model?

A. (Leon McKenzie –LM)

Although football is a roller coaster of emotion, you have to try and act accordingly. As the father of two you are always aware of what you do both on and off the pitch. Although the removing of a shirt isn’t allowed in the rules it shows how easy it is to forget yourself in the heat of the moment. That said there has to be a line of what is acceptable even in the heat of the moment, the incident at Newcastle (Bowyer & Dyer) is completely unacceptable.

(Jason Shackell –JS)

Norwich is a family club and everyone is aware and supports the role that the club has on those around the community. There is no room at the club for anyone that breaks the relationship between the club, its players and its fans.

(Dean Ashton –DA)

Whether you are on or off the field you are constantly a representative of NCFC and you have a part to play in maintaining the solid work that the club has done. Children will always emulate their heroes, which is a good thing, for as long as they do not copy poor or unacceptable behaviour.

Q. Although we play a 4-4-2 system, with Huckerby on the left we look exposed. Are you comfortable with this?

AJS - Hucks played the role very well against Man United and to a certain extent played a more defensive role for the better of the team.

LM – Hucks is the sort of player that just runs and runs, he puts a lot of effort in for the team that he sometimes does not get credited for, but he is happy to do so. With his pace he is able to stay with the likes of Ronaldo when others would be trailing in their wake.

DA – We are all aware that Hucks is a forward thinking player, and we are all aware of the need to work as a team. Generally if Hucks is pressing up field, the three remaining midfielders tuck in to offer cover and support. There will also be times where he or Leon drops back to cover his position.

Q. How do you feel about refereeing standards? Do you feel they are bias towards the top three?

ALM – Some of the decisions have been “terrible” and at times “they do my brain in!”

JS – Some of the decisions have been extremely frustrating, but that is part of football. We have to remember that it is hard for them too, especially with so many bodies in the way, and the tempo of the game….I wouldn’t want to do it!

DA – Yes it can be frustrating, but the referees will not change their minds. The game has a faster tempo than ever, and players are getting quicker with the speed in which they work. It’s not an easy job.

Q. If the worst happens, and we are relegated, can we be assured of your services next season.

ADA – I’m still settling into the Premiership, but more importantly I have only just began to settle in Norwich. I have no intention of leaving the club unless Norwich City decide to sell me.

JS – Norwich is a great club and I have two years of my contract left.

LM – I am a Norwich City player and I love the club. I have two years to run on my contract.