Munby, Doncaster and Marshall kick-off the Norwich exodus

May 13, 2009

Today was a significant day for Norwich’s life after the Championship. Their chairman Roger Munby and Chief Executive Neil Doncaster both resigned, and star goalkeeper David Marshall was sold to Championship side Cardiff.

So what happens next for the cash-strapped East Anglian side? Midfielder Lee Croft looks set to leave after rebuffing an offer of a new contract. The winger has been linked with a host of clubs, most recently, Nigel Clough’s Derby.

The exit of Croft was always likely even if the Canaries had stayed up, but which other players are likely to want to leave? There were rumours back in January of a substantial bid from Fulham for Sammy Clingan, and it is hard to see a player of Clingan’s quality playing once again in League One, as he did for Nottingham Forest.

Other players could also be on the way out. For example, Simon Lappin’s contract expires this summer, and it is unclear whether he will be offered a new one. Progress in League One will require character and grit and it will be telling to see just who sticks it out.

In the case of Marshall, he was one of the few players that performed well this season, so one could argue that he deserves a move. However, high wages and the fact he had only one year left to run on his contract may have forced the board’s decision, and cash in on one of their prized assets.

And so to the board itself. Munby and Doncaster’s departures have left a gaping hole at the top of the club and it is unclear who will fill this void. Delia Smith seems unlikely to step into the chairman’s seat, so could it be that Michael Foulger takes the reigns?

This may not become clear immediately, but a decision could have been made already. What is clear is that changes needed to be made, and change has now come, if perhaps a little too late. Like many recent Premiership teams, Norwich made bad decisions at the top of the club and the price they paid has of course been relegation.

The coaching staff is another uncertainty. Bryan Gunn clearly stated his desire to remain as manager next season, but whether or not he will do is at the moment, unknown. His deputies Ian Butterworth and Ian Crook may be retained, but again this is merely conjecture.

Rumours have surrounded the possible appointment of former Canaries’ favourite Mark Robins, currently in charge at Rotherham United. Robins would be a popular choice for the fans, and crucially he has managerial experience. No-one doubts Gunn’s passion for the club, but his lack of experience could be a real problem.

So the saga of Norwich City FC goes on, much as it will do at both Southampton and Charlton, the two other relegated clubs. Norwich fans will be hoping that things get sorted out soon. If this happens, (and it is a big if) it will give the team a great chance to hit the ground running on the football pitch next season; the place where it really matters.

Will Sargent.

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