Norwich City column: Kenny McLean a scapegoat who could be vital for City’s promotion push this season

As football fans, there seems to be a compulsion to find a scapegoat whenever things aren’t going quite as hoped on the pitch.

It’s certainly not a problem unique to Norwich fans, but one that I often find myself frustrated at.

This season, there have been a few contenders, with some even firing highly unjustified criticism towards Teemu Pukki.

Another player who certainly falls into that category is Kenny McLean.

For much of this campaign to date, Kenny has been asked to play out of position. His exploits at left-back have been well documented, while in the absence of Isaac Hayden and Jacob Sorensen, he has often found himself in a defensive midfield role – somewhere I don’t think suits his skills set.

It has led to people questioning whether or not he should still be a regular in the team, with the likes of Liam Gibbs pushing for selection. For me, there are still few more effective than Kenny at this level, particularly when given a more advanced role – as he was against Rotherham.

That freedom allowed him to get forward and open his account for the season, nodding home a deflected shot from Pukki.

Kenny is experienced, smart and just an all-round solid player. He knows how to succeed at this level, and I feel if we are to mount a serious challenge come May, then his partnership with Hayden will be key.

Kenny will no doubt feature when Norwich host Middlesbrough tomorrow, the final game before the World Cup hiatus.

Four points behind Blackburn in second, it feels like an important game, with a win needed to keep the pressure on.

Longer term, Kenny’s future isn’t quite as clear. He is one of many players out of contract come the end of the season. We could see another overhaul in the playing department. Whatever happens, he has been a fantastic servant to this club.