Former Ipswich Town captain Matt Holland has admitted to being impressed by Norwich City this season, although he believes the Canaries top-flight campaign will end in relegation.

Holland made over 250 appearances for City’s rivals and is remembered fondly by Town supporters.

Despite his connections across the border, Holland has consumed City on numerous occasions as a radio pundit this season.

Largely, the ex-Ipswich captain has been impressed by Daniel Farke’s side - but he still believes they will be relegated to the Championship.

“Put this on record, I’ve got sympathy for Norwich because I’ve watched them so many times and have been impressed with them,” Holland told talkSPORT’s Gameday Podcast.

The Pink Un: Holland in action against the Canaries in 2002. Picture: ArchantHolland in action against the Canaries in 2002. Picture: Archant (Image: EDP©2003)

“I was at Carrow Road to watch them beat Man City (3-2 in September). Man City press you and you’ve got to be good to play through that press. Norwich played through that press and deservedly beat them.

“Norwich are a talented side and have a lot of young players who are going to be courted by other teams in the Premier League if they do go down. There’s Max Aarons, Todd Cantwell, (Emi) Buendia... the list goes on. Jamal Lewis, too.”

Holland played in several East Anglian derbies - being defeated on three occasions by the Canaries.

City resume their Premier League season on Friday, but Holland doesn’t believe the individual quality they possess will be enough to see them keep their head above water in the top-flight this season.

“I’ve been really impressed with them but here’s the caveat, they’re going down. They’ve won five all season and have to win five of the last nine games. The first two against Southampton and Everton at Carrow Road are absolutely vital to give themselves a fighting chance.

“For them to win five out of the last nine is a tall order and highly unlikely, so I’ve got Norwich going down.”