Norwich City Hall of Fame member Rob Newman backs Angus Gunn to deliver real penalty box presence – and reaffirms his increasing value to Premier League big boys Manchester City
Rob Newman (far right) alongside his 1992 Norwich City team-mates, including goalkeeper Bryan Gunn (far left). Picture: Archant
Angus Gunn may be short of competitive senior experience – but he has the presence to make his name at Norwich City.
Angus Gunn will link up with Norwich City after England Under-21 duty. Picture: JasonPix - Credit: Jason Dawson/JASONPIX
That is the verdict of Canaries Hall of Famer Rob Newman, now a European scout for Gunn’s parent club Manchester City.
Newman fought for the Premier League title and played in the Uefa Cup during his time at Norwich alongside Gunn’s dad and fellow goalkeeper, Bryan.
Now he’ll be keeping a close eye on Angus’ progress, strong in the belief the 21-year-old will prove a big success during his season loan.
“I’ve seen him in Under-23 games and he’s done really well, but what he has is a fantastic presence about him,” said Newman.
Angus Gunn in action for Norwich City's Under-15 squad in Belgium. May 2010. - Credit: Archant
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“I’m probably about the same size as Gunny, but Angus is about three or four inches taller than both of us. Bryan was very good with his feet. He was more or less a sweeper for us when we played, and Angus is as good.
“I think that’s what makes him important to the Manchester City set-up at the moment. Their goalkeepers need to be good with their feet and he’s certainly that.”
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Gunn is set to be City’s number one next season and Newman is confident that won’t be undermined by the fact the keeper has yet to make a senior appearance.
“I don’t think that’s a factor,” said Newman. “He came into the fold last year, the new manager (Pep Guardiola) really liked him and that was it. He wanted Angus to be around his first team squad, which meant he wasn’t playing any competitive games.
“He needs to do that now and this season is very important for him. If at the end of it, he’s got 50 competitive games in the Championship, that looks all the better on his CV and will help his progression at Manchester City.
MORE: The time is right for Angus Gunn to prove what he’s got in the professional game
“Maybe it’s come a year late for his first loan but saying that, it’s a fantastic opportunity.
“He’s coming back to a club where his dad had so many fantastic memories and there are players in the team that he was an apprentice. That’s going to make the transition smoother and hopefully the people of Norfolk will get one hell of a young goalkeeper come in next year.
“Hopefully his performances will not only help him progress, but help the club be successful too.
“The fans will take to him. He’s a good kid as well, so fingers crossed everything goes well for both him and the club.”
• Follow Michael Bailey on Twitter @michaeljbailey and Facebook @mbjourno
