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Daniel Farke working overtime to ease goal burden on James Maddison

James Maddison tries his luck against Bolton. Picture: Paul Chesterton/Focus Images Ltd ©Focus Images Limited www.focus-images.co.uk +447814 482222

Stopping Norwich City firing blanks is top of Daniel Farke’s in tray.

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The Canaries were held to a frustrating goalless Championship stalemate against Bolton despite carving out a string of clear-cut chances.

Farke admits that elusive quest for goals is rapidly turning into the story of the campaign.

“It is a topic not only in this game, but nearly the whole season,” he said.

“When I think about the start of the season we were struggling to create chances but that is not the case now.

Portuguese striker Nelson Oliveira summed up the mood of frustration last time out, as Norwich City suffered another home shutout. Tonight, they welcome Nottingham Forest to Carrow Road. Picture: Paul Chesterton/Focus Images Portuguese striker Nelson Oliveira summed up the mood of frustration last time out, as Norwich City suffered another home shutout. Tonight, they welcome Nottingham Forest to Carrow Road. Picture: Paul Chesterton/Focus Images

“If you look at the recent games we have had one against ones, two against ones, penalties.

“When you are not able to bring the ball over the line then the draw is the best result you can get and against Bolton we were not able to get the ball over the line.

“I thought we were outstanding in defence, outstanding in possession, but when you don’t score you can’t win a game; when you don’t score you are not allowed to win.

“We missed chances in an unbelievable way.

“We are heading in the right direction but I also have to criticise the guys on this topic because the aim of the game is to get the ball over the line.

“Supporters maybe saw a better performance than we put in at either Brentford or Bristol City - in terms of how we dominated - yet we won both of those matches.”

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James Maddison’s magic touch proved decisive on each occasion, and City have been heavily reliant on the nine-goal top scorer for the entire campaign.

“He is a player who can make the difference,” said Farke.

“James has been outstanding for us this season, with such a grown up attitude for a young player.

“He knows he can create special moments on the pitch but he is also willing to run and fight for his team mates.

“For such a young age he is so important.”

Farke’s focus might be firmly on the top end of the pitch, but key defender Timm Klose should be available for the weekend’s trip to Barnsley after a hamstring injury ruled the Swiss international out against the Trotters.

“Hopefully he will be okay.

“The plan is to return to team training on Tuesday or Wednesday and if there is no reaction he will be available,” said Farke.

“We had to do without Timm but we decided to bring even one more attacking player in.”

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