Norwich City warned to fear “lethal” Stoke City star with Ipswich Town motivation
Stoke City will travel to Carrow Road this weekend to face Norwich City, aiming to build on their recent 3-1 comeback win over Swansea City.
The victory over Swansea helped ease some of Stoke’s relegation concerns, as they extended their lead over 22nd-place Derby County to six points. Lewis Baker’s stunning halfway-line goal sealed the win at the bet365 Stadium.
Next, Stoke faces a Norwich side struggling with consistency, having won just two of their last seven league matches, which has hindered their play-off hopes. Despite this, Norwich remains only four points off the top six as the season enters its final third.
With much at stake in East Anglia, we spoke to Stoke City fan pundit Daniel Buxton about which player Norwich should be watching out for when Stoke visits.
Ali Al-Hamadi’s Impact Praised Ahead of Norwich Encounter
After Tom Cannon’s recall by Leicester City in January, there were concerns about Stoke’s attacking options. However, the arrival of Ali Al-Hamadi has already made a positive impact.
The Iraq international joined on loan from Ipswich Town for the second half of the season and has started the last three matches, quickly impressing with his energetic style of play. His high work rate has set the tone for Stoke, aligning with manager Mark Robins’ desire for a team that is active off the ball and can regain possession quickly.
Al-Hamadi also showcased his goal-scoring ability on his debut, scoring an equalizer against Hull City before Andrew Moran netted the winner in a 2-1 victory at the MKM Stadium. This win was Stoke’s first away victory since November, and Buxton believes the new signing could be key to another road win this weekend.
When asked which player Norwich should be most concerned about, Buxton said: “Ali Al-Hamadi up front is definitely a player Norwich should watch. He embodies the style of striker Stoke fans love. He has incredible energy, constantly pressuring defenders, making it difficult for them to have any peace. Norwich’s defense could be prone to mistakes, and they won’t want him around.
“Not only is he a constant threat with his pressing, but he’s also a clinical finisher. If the ball is delivered into the right area, he won’t miss.”
With Al-Hamadi contracted to Ipswich Town, Norwich’s local rivals, he’ll likely be extra motivated to perform well in this match.
Stoke City’s Hopes for Permanent Deal After Al-Hamadi’s Impact
Al-Hamadi has been a refreshing addition to Stoke, with his tireless performances and high energy setting a positive example for the team. His relentless style of play has quickly earned him the admiration of Stoke fans, and his ability to link up with teammates in attack has been crucial.
There is already talk of Stoke potentially signing him permanently in the summer, though that will depend on Ipswich’s stance. The Tractor Boys, who paid a seven-figure fee for Al-Hamadi in January 2024, will likely seek to profit from any deal.
Buxton added: “I would love to see him stay at Stoke full-time, though I’m unsure about the cost or whether Ipswich would let him go. Last week, his constant pressure on Swansea’s defense inspired the midfielders and wingers to push forward, setting the tone for the whole team.
“Having a player like that motivates the entire squad, and he’s definitely the player Norwich should be wary of. He’s a key figure for us, and a player who can drive the team forward.”
