City’s ‘young ones’ look in good shape, with a few eyeing up the international stage for good measure

There is one Canary who will be happy to see the transfer window slam firmly shut, with City’s young starlet George Francomb eyeing a first-team place sooner rather than later.

After signing his first professional contract in the summer and being a huge part of the Canaries pre-season campaign, it would appear he has caught Paul Lambert’s eye with Russell Martin the only other recognised right-back in the building

The City chief has already been quick to point out he’d have no problem putting Francomb in his starting line-up: “I would have no fears in playing George Francomb,” he said a few weeks ago. 

“He has done great when he has played so I have no worries with him coming in to the team.”  If you’re good enough, you’re old enough seems to be Lambert’s policy.

But the Academy product knows all too well that the work does not end with the manager’s praise.  “I’m really glad I’ve got this first pro contract and I’ve now got to work hard and try and get my next one,” he said, upon signing his first pro deal in June.  “I’ll be continuing to work really hard to try and push into the first-team squad.”

It has not been a bad start to the campaign, with Francomb already clocking up one appearance in the Carling Cup against Blackburn Rovers at Ewood Park.

But his league debut against Swindon Town last season, in front of 25,000 fans at Carrow Road, has only left him with a thirst for more of the same.  “It was the most unbelievable feeling, probably the best day of my life so far.  I’m hungry for more experiences like that one.”

On the international theme, Francomb’s fellow City starlet Josh Dawkin, who also signed his first professional contract in the summer, is waiting to see if he is called into the Wales Under-19 squad for their friendly against Liechtenstein on Tuesday – with the Cambridgeshire born youngster currently on standby.

And whether he stays or goes, City Academy boss Ricky Martin boss believes international football is important for a young player’s development. 

For Dawkin, Declan Rudd, Jed Steer and possibly Francomb in the months and years to come – with the Londoner surely a candidate for the 19s – it can only be positive influence on their career.

“For any young players that can get international recognition, it’s very good for them and hopefully it will further improve their football development at the club.”

However, ‘keeper Steer will be disappointed that he had to pull out of the England Under-21 squad through injury before Thursday night’s win against Slovakia at Crewe Alexandra’s Gresty Road.

But the young Canary stopper will be aiming to be fit and back in Noel Blake’s plans when they play Cyprus next month.

In terms of first-team stars on international duty, Andrew Crofts missed Wales’ 1-0 European Championship qualifier defeat in Montenegro last night with a groin strain.

Tom Haylett, Toby Newton.