Smith doubtful for Tranmere trip

David Cuffley Midfielder Korey Smith is rated a doubtful start for League One leaders Norwich City's televised game at Tranmere Rovers tomorrow night (7.45pm).The 19-year-old was hobbling with a “dead leg” and was substituted towards the end of Saturday's 1-0 victory over Leeds United.

David Cuffley

Midfielder Korey Smith is rated a doubtful starter for League One leaders Norwich City's televised game at Tranmere Rovers tomorrow night (7.45pm).

The 19-year-old was hobbling with a “dead leg” and was substituted towards the end of Saturday's 1-0 victory over Leeds United.

“He's a little bit of a doubt at the minute so we'll just see how he is,” said manager Paul Lambert today.

“He's played an awful lot of games and he's been terrific for me.”

Defender Jens Berthel Askou (foot) and forward Luke Daley (thigh) are still out of action.

The Canaries face two games in four days with Stockport the visitors to Carrow Road on Easter Monday.

“The most important game is this one coming up and I'll see how everybody feels and see how we do. I know it's a short turnaround, but it's the same for everybody and we have to get on with it,” said Lambert

Stephen Hughes, one candidate for a recall if Smith is ruled out, replaced him for the last five minutes against Leeds and set up the winning goal for fellow substitute Chris Martin, a further indication of the back-up available to the manager on the bench.

Said Lambert: “I don't look at just 11 lads or the subs. It's everybody at the football club I need to perform.

“The lads that have played every single week have been brilliant, but if you get on you have to try to do that.

“I expect them to go and do it. It's their job to go and perform and they have been brilliant for me.”