Norwich City midfielder Anis Ben Slimane is taking things one day at a time, acknowledging the uncertainties surrounding his future with the team yet expressing his enjoyment of life in Norfolk. Since joining the Canaries from Sheffield United on loan, Slimane has quickly found his place within the squad and become part of head coach Johannes Hoff Thorup's plans.
"I just try to do my best for the club, and after, whatever happens happens. It's not in my hands. I really enjoy being here," Slimane stated, emphasizing his commitment to perform at his best. This sentiment has been echoed throughout the club, where both players and staff have rallied together to build morale during the challenging Championship season.
At present, Norwich City is wrestling with difficult dynamics, sitting at 13th place with only one point earned from their last four matches, including defeats against QPR and Burnley, and disappointment against Sunderland. Slimane's contributions are substantial; he managed to find the net against Sunderland, though his team fell short, losing 2-1.
"It's frustrating when we're not getting the results, but when we win, everyone is happy. After games like Sunderland, you just have to move forward because there’s no time to dwell on the past. We need to aim for three points next week," the Tunisian international reflected. This resolve is particularly important as Norwich prepares for their upcoming home match against Millwall on Boxing Day.
The team has struggled to find their rhythm lately, leading to concerns about the upcoming festive schedule. Limiting injuries and maximizing player potential is imperative, and this fact is well understood by Thorup and his coaching team. They have demonstrated the ability to adapt, managing Slimane's playing time as he overcomes fitness issues. Slimane himself acknowledged the challenges, mentioning, "I think I'm getting there... It has been difficult, but I knew it from the beginning, and it is how it is."
Such management is ably tested as the Canaries' season progresses. The team endures its own share of fitness woes, especially with Josh Sargent and other key players sidelined. They will be without Sargent's help due to groin problems and are facing the absence of Kenny McLean, who is serving suspension, as well as other injured team members.
While Norwich struggles, their upcoming match against Millwall could mark the turning point they’re desperately seeking. Historically, Norwich has dominated this fixture, with their last defeat to Millwall at Carrow Road dating back to November 1968, and they will be aiming to reclaim their home field advantage. The anticipation builds as Slimane and his teammates prepare to face the Lions, riding off the momentum of their previous performances against them.
Millwall arrives with confidence after edging out Blackburn Rovers, but they face their own challenges. The Lions have failed to score more than one goal in any of their last 14 matches and will hope to remedy this trend. With both sides eager to turn their fortunes around, the Boxing Day clash at Carrow Road promises to be a pivotal moment for the clubs involved.
For Slimane, the focus remains squarely on the present and the joys of contributing to Norwich City, relishing the connection he’s built with teammates and fans alike. "I like the city, it's a really nice city. My teammates, the staff, and everybody has been really good," he expressed, showcasing his personal investment and commitment to the team's success.
The uncertainty of whether Norwich City will opt to make Slimane's transfer permanent at the conclusion of the season only adds to the intrigue surrounding this player and club dynamic. Nonetheless, for now, Slimane finds himself fully immersed and engaged, hoping his performance can help guide his team to improved success on the pitch.
