Norwich forward in line for return in Carabao Cup clash against Cardiff | OneFootball

Norwich City boss Philippe Clement says Ante Crnac could make his competitive return from a ten-month injury lay-off in Tuesday’s Carabao Cup clash with Cardiff City.

Darlin Yongwa and Bruno Alves are also expected to feature as Clement looks to manage his squad and build up the fitness of players returning from injury.

“They’re going to take minutes in this game also,” Clement said.

“Then it’s about deciding, do you start with them, do you let them come on? Those are decisions that we need to make.

“But they need to get minutes also now, otherwise it’s of no use to bring them in. The player who’s been playing all the time in their position will get injured, so we need to integrate them in the squad.

“Tomorrow is maybe the first real moment that we can do it. For Darlin, maybe for Bruno, maybe for Ante after 10 months out, he can get some minutes there.”

Clement stressed that Crnac’s return will need to be carefully managed, with the forward having not played competitive football for almost a year.

“Do we expect Ante to be at his best, how he should be? No, that’s impossible after 10 months with no football,” he said.

However, Clement insists Norwich’s priority remains progressing in the Carabao Cup rather than simply using the game to give players minutes.

“But I want to be clear: we go to Cardiff not for a friendly game to give minutes to players, it’s to qualify in the cup,” he added.

“That stays the most important thing in everything.

“I need to balance everything out with this game, with the games to come, and also with the weeks to come, in moments, to give those chances.”

Clement also confirmed José Córdoba’s suspension begins with Tuesday’s game, while Paris Maghoma has returned to training as he continues his recovery.