Wycombe vs Norwich: The EDP's views on Sunday's match

Many might think with the Canaries on course for promotion back to the Premier League after a one-year absence, the Chairboys could be in for a tough time this Sunday lunchtime.

However, with Gareth Ainsworth’s men producing a wonderful 1-0 win over promotion-pushing Reading, who is to say that a major shock could be on the cards this weekend?

Ahead of the clash, I spoke to the Eastern Daily Press’ chief Norwich reporter, David Freezer, on what he thinks of the season so far, and what Wycombe can expect.

How impressed have you been with Norwich this season?

DF: “Their consistency has been very impressive and during this strange season without fans, the defensive stability has been the major part of shaking off the relegation hangover, with the attacking quality then able to make the difference – in spite of a ridiculous injury list during the first half of the season.

READ MORE: Wycombe defender joins National League side on loan

“Ben Gibson and Grant Hanley have proved an excellent centre-back pairing and Spurs loanee Oliver Skipp has been a crucial cog in the machine as a defensive midfielder.

“As an example, City currently have seven points more than two seasons ago, when they won the title, despite scoring 16 fewer goals after 32 games – as they’ve conceded 17 fewer.

“Control, balance, and hard work.”

Teemu Pukki and Dennis Adeniran fighting for the ball at Carrow Road (Prime Media)

Who are the key players that Wycombe need to be on the look out for?

DF: “Teemu Pukki, of course, with 17 goals is a very good Championship player.

“Give him a clear sight of goal at this level and there’s a good chance he’ll score – after a shaky middle phase of the season where he lost a bit of rhythm and confidence after a minor injury.

READ MORE: 'It is just a bit different' - Gareth Ainsworth on Ryan Allsop's injury

“Most Norwich fans would claim unpredictable creative midfielder Emi Buendia is the outstanding player in the Championship though, with nine goals and nine assists.

“He really should be playing at a higher level.”

This may be bottom vs top, but Wycombe beat play-off hopefuls in Reading during the week – do you think a shock could be on the cards?

DF: “This is the fourth game in a row against a team scrapping for survival but so far City have dealt with Coventry, Rotherham, and Birmingham reasonably smoothly, although all three were awkward and Birmingham’s unexpected attacking ambition nearly caught them out in midweek.

“This game, top against bottom, has always looked a banana skin in waiting though.

READ MORE: Gareth Ainsworth is looking forward to a 'tough test' against Norwich on Sunday

“It’s just difficult to see Norwich losing a game at the moment.

“They’re in a good place mentally and physically.”

Uche Ikpeazu is crestfallen as Norwich scored an injury-time winner against Wycombe back in October (Prime Media)

What areas could Wycombe exploit against Norwich?

DF: “Getting in behind the attacking full-backs would seem the main point of weakness but midfielders Skipp and Kenny McLean work hard to fill those gaps.

“The teams who have caused City the most problems are those who press them high and fast but doing that for 90 minutes against a team so comfortable with passing is very physically draining and can end up leaving them vulnerable at the back, where Buendia or Todd Cantwell can create for Pukki so quickly.

READ MORE: 'The boys all think we can stay in this league' - Ainsworth on Wycombe's win over Reading

“Two years ago set-pieces were their Achilles heel but no longer, with Hanley, in particular, taking ownership of those situations.

“Boro man-marked across the pitch to earn a 0-0 draw at Carrow Road recently, but that was with Buendia sent off midway through the second half.”

The game on Sunday will kick-off at 12pm.

For sports content regarding this weekend's match, follow myself @James_BFP or @DavidFreezer on Twitter for more information.