Published:
6:00 a.m. September 19, 2022
Sam Byram is still struggling to get back into top form after being pushed back into the Norwich City line-up following a series of left back injuries.
The defender experienced further injury frustrations during pre-season before being granted very little time to return to his top level due to necessity, with Dean Smith admitting it was a case of necessity.
Byram has spent a lot of time after games recovering to be ready for the next one.
Speaking after City’s 1-1 draw with West Brom, in which he scored a controversial equalizer, the full-back admitted there is more to come from him.
“I still feel like I’m pretty far from 100% fit. The injury was frustrating, but the nature of how I’ve had to come back and play quite a few games in a short space of time after very little training has made it difficult.
“You can probably tell towards the end of games that I’m getting tired,” Byram said. “Hopefully this continues to grow. It’s a good time to take a break.
“The nature of how quickly games change is a factor. The whole week revolves around preparing for games or recovering for the next one.
“Mentally and physically it takes its toll, but it’s what we’re here for. I’m pushing myself to get back to my best physical shape. I enjoy a challenge and I’ve been enjoying it.”
Byram’s struggle for fitness is made more difficult by the fact that he is deployed out of his natural position on a sprained left side that currently lacks balance.
The 29-year-old has experience operating in that role, but Norwich will need to iron out that problem in the coming weeks.
“It’s a little bit unnatural, but I think the more I play there, the more I’ll understand,” Byram said. “I’m practicing with my left foot every day after training, so there are things to improve.
“I’ve played a lot there. Naturally, I’m not a southpaw, so it’s going to be harder to open up and play the balls over the top that the coach is looking for with the eights making deeper runs. It is what it is.
“I’m not complaining. I’m happy to play and as long as I play there, I will give everything for the team.”
