SIR KENNY DALGLISH
From Hampden to Qatar, football is in absolute chaos
Norwich City manager, Daniel Farke, has absolved midfielder Kenny McLean from any blame for his side’s relegation from the Premier League.
He insists the Scotland international midfielder is one of the few players under his command to have adapted to playing in the top flight.
The former Aberdeen and St Mirren stalwart has missed just two league games this season, but was unable to prevent their demotion back to the Championship after just one season upstairs.
He also played for Steve Clarke in the home defeats to Russia and Belgium in the Euros qualifers, and now has 10 caps to his name.
German Farke is as big a fan of McLean as the Scotland boss.
“Kenny for me last season was unbelievably important and he has developed further,” said Farke.
“He is a versatile, all-round player with the game to play a number of positions.
“Let’s be honest, we have some players with great possession skills, or finding a key pass, or maybe delivering a set-piece.
“But Kenny is probably our mostcomplete midfielder.
“He is competitive, his workload and his endurance are good and he is definitely our best defensive header.
“He is aggressive in the duels and our most dynamic midfielder.
“Kenny is also composed on the ball, and a left-footer.
“He offers many skills, and that physicality at this level is irreplaceable for us.
“If you can dominate the ball in a game, then maybe the defensive skills are not as important.
“But at this level we need players who are capable to invest a lot without the ball.”
28-year-old McLean has also emerged as one of the stronger personalities in a youthful City dressing room.
Farke added: “Kenny is a great lad in the dressing room. If things are not working, he will say so.
“He is not scared on the pitch, encouraging younger players – but also criticising them when needed. “Even if he is not in the starting lineup he is good for the mood. Each club needs a player with this personality.
“When he isn’t on the pitch at this level, we lack physicality and pace. Without certain players we look weak.”