Norwich City have rejected a surprise transfer request from Grant Holt, who recently won the club's player of the year award for the third successive season.

The 31-year-old striker enjoyed a superb first season in the top flight with the Canaries. Holt impressed so much there had been suggestions of an England call-up, but he was not named in Roy Hodgson's squad for Euro 2012.

The striker has become a fans' favourite at the club since joining from Shrewsbury for a reported fee of £400,000 in July 2009.

Holt helped the East Anglian side to the League One title in his first season at the club, with 30 goals in 44 appearances. He continued to score regularly in the Championship and helped Paul Lambert's side secure back-to-back promotions, earning them a place in the Premier League after a six-year absence.

Holt's performances led to his being rewarded with a new three-year deal at Carrow Road ahead of the 2011-12 season, in which he shone and hit 17 goals.

However, he has now handed in a transfer request and could be set to leave.

The news follows speculation linking Paul Lambert with a move away from the club. The Norwich manager is considered one of the hottest talents in the country and has been linked with the vacant positions at Aston Villa and Liverpool.