In an exclusive blog for whufc.com, Winston Reid talks Norwich City, Slaven Bilic and those away wins

Hello everyone,



I hope everyone is enjoying our league form and looking forward to our game with Norwich City tomorrow. It feels like ages since we last played at the Boleyn Ground and I know all the lads are looking forward to getting back out there.



On Saturday, we have a fantastic opportunity to record our fourth straight league win which would be a fantastic achievement.



Having said that, Norwich are a good side and we certainly won’t underestimate them. They’ve managed to adapt to the Premier League remarkably well and they are playing some nice football.



It wasn’t too long ago that we were in a similar position to the Canaries, so we know exactly what they’re going through.



We haven’t been the best at home this season which is something we need to improve. There isn’t really a reason that I can point to for our inconsistency. It’s just one of those things, we caught off guard twice early on and hopefully we’ll learn from that.



It’s going to a long season; the only thing we can do is concentrate on ourselves. We have to make sure we stay focuses and keep working hard.



I have to mention our latest historic win away at Manchester City. When you play a team of that quality you have to 100% on it. Collectively, we were really great that day and thoroughly deserved the win.

Long may these away wins continue!



A huge amount of credit, deservedly, has gone to the manager. He has been first class ever since he started.



Slaven is a very relaxed guy and he’s good to the players. He clearly hasn’t forgotten what it’s like to be a footballer himself, which is a crucial characteristic.



We had a slightly unusual pre-season where we were getting used to his new ideas but also trying to qualify for the Europa League. Unfortunately we didn’t quite manage that, but afterwards we had a team meeting and we said we need to focus on the Premier League.



Most importantly, the new manager came in with new ideas that are easily understood. He’s a great communicator. He likes to get hands on in training which is good. He’s very engaging and the players like working for him.



Another hot topic at the moment is Dimitri Payet. I don’t need to say much as he lets his football do the talking. He’s obviously a special player and he’s a joy to play alongside. He’s also very personable and easy to get along with.



On Tuesday, it was great to have Andy back, it’s always hard when you’re injured but he’s done well to keep coming back from injury. He’s a great player and we’re delighted to have him back. We all know what he can bring to the team when he’s on form.



We’ve also got Enner Valencia and Alex Song to come back too, so there’s plenty of positivity around the training ground.



Finally, I’d just like to wish the All Blacks well in the Rugby World Cup. I know a couple of the guys so I’m hoping to meet up with them while they’re over here. Hopefully I’ll get over to a game and see us lift the trophy!



See you on Saturday!



Winston