Opinion
Fitzpatrick’s potential shines through at Aldiss Park
Aidan Fitzpatrick in action for Norwich City's development squad during the 4-3 defeat to Dereham Town at Aldiss Park. Picture: Tony Thrussell - Credit: Tony Thrussell
When Aidan Fitzpatrick signed for Norwich City’s development squad in the summer from Partick Thistle, there was excitement at the prospect of his talents being developed inside the walls of Colney.
The Scottish youth international has already been deployed in the Scottish Championship, scoring on his debut for the Jags and in doing so becoming the first player born in the 2000s to do so for the Scottish outfit.
Fitzpatrick was a long-term target for City, with international recognition with Scotland's U17s, U18s and now U19s all on his CV.
On Tuesday evening, he was involved in the trip to Aldiss Park to face a robust Dereham Town side for a Norwich City academy XI in a quest to retain match fitness during the break.
REPORT: Young Canaries humbled by Dereham Town in 4-3 friendly defeat
The Scottish winger was quiet in the opening period, displaying a few flashes of promise without producing a moment of brilliance that was capable of unlocking the Magpies' defensive set-up.
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Blistering pace underpins everything Fitzpatrick does, with counter attacks orchestrated by the Scot City's most threatening source of attack in the first half.
In terms of influence, Fitzpatrick drifted in and out of the game, with his defensive contribution ensuring Dereham couldn't play through the centre of the young Canaries' shape.
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The second half was more fruitful for the winger, with his pace a constant threat down the right-hand side for City.
His ability to outrun defenders combined with the direct nature of his dribbling makes him an edge-of-the-seat type footballer capable of producing a moment of brilliance.
Fitzpatrick is an archetypal wide man; he wants to engage defenders into a one-versus-one situation before utilising his speed to unleash a shot on goal or work a crossing opportunity.
On the 87th minute, Fitzpatrick did get his goal after numerous bursts of creativity throughout the evening. It was a sublime ball in by Ruben Shakpoke that was rocketed into the far left corner by the winger to make it 4-3.
The evidence of this offering merely showcased Fitzpatrick's potential.
Given the meticulous, individual player development pathways devised by the powers that be, it's clear to see Fitzpatrick boasts the physical attributes required to play senior football.
- We spoke to Fitzpatrick about his move to City during pre-season, you can watch that video above
