Norwich City: Adam Idah hails Ashley Barnes' Canaries impact
Ashley Barnes has been a surprise package for Norwich City's striking contingent, Adam Idah admits.
Idah is now set for a run in the side alongside Barnes following Josh Sargent's absence with an ankle ligament injury that will see him sidelined until January.
Norwich hope that Barnes' qualities will elevate Idah's game to the next level after struggles with form over the last 18 months. They have also added South Korean international Hwang Ui-jo to their ranks.
Barnes has become a popular figure with supporters, colleagues and coaches since he joined Norwich earlier this summer and has been integral to the shift in mentality along with Shane Duffy.
After some initial nerves about encountering the experienced forward, Idah was put fully at ease by the ex-Burnley forward during their first meeting.
"Ash is a great guy. When he came in at first I was a bit nervous because he's played a lot of games," Idah said
"I thought he was going to be really tough on me but he's been brilliant and has given me a lot of confidence - not just on the pitch but off it as well.
"He's a top guy and when you play games with him he shows you so much and gets you going. When I'm pressing and I'm feeling a bit tired he will give me another boost. He's been top with me and Josh. Everyone loves him in the changing room."
Barnes' intangible qualities have been impactful but he's also shown quality on the pitch - netting twice in five games.
Idah has felt the benefits of having Barnes alongside him during matches and is leaning on every ounce of his experience in his quest for improvement.
"The minute I met him, it was like I'd known him for years," the Irish international said. "He's confident and a great character to have around the group.
"Even if we're struggling, we can always and speak to him. He has so much experience in the game so I'm confident to go and ask him anything. He is like the big brother in the team.
"All the experienced lads before the game give us a boost - that's the big difference from this season to last season."
