I Kenny let star man go

60 Sunday Mail

Daniel Farke has warned predators that Norwich WON’T be selling Scotland midfielder Kenny McLean.

The Carrow Road side are heading back to the Championship after just one season back in England’s top flight.

And boss Farke insists the Canaries can’t afford to lose their star playmaker if they are to bounce back up.

The German fears his side would be too soft without the former St Mirren and Aberdeen ace at the heart of the action.

The 28- year- old has missed only two of already relegated Norwich’s 37 Premier League games and Farke sees him as key to them climbing out of the ultra tough Championship next term.

He said: “Kenny last season was unbelievably important and he has developed further.

“He is a versatile, al lround player with the game to be able to play in a number of positions.

“Let’s be honest, we have some players with great possession skills or finding a key pass or delivering a set-piece but he’s probably our most complete midfield player. He’s competitive, his workload and his endurance are good and he’s definitely our best defensive header.

“He’s aggressive in the duels and our most dynamic midfielder.

“He’s also composed on the ball and a left-footer. He offers many skills and that physicality at this level is irreplaceable.

“If you can dominate the ball in a game then maybe the defensive skills aren’t as important but, at this level, we need players who are capable to invest a lot without the ball.

“When he isn’t on the pitch we lack physicality and pace – without certain players we look weak.”

Farke revealed McLean is also a major influence on the younger players at the club.

He added: “He’s a great lad in the dressing room.

“If things aren’t working, he will say so. He isn’t scared on the pitch, encouraging younger players but also criticising them if needed. Every club needs a player with his personality.”