Ward wants Norwich start

Wales goalkeeper Darren Ward is ready to step in and help Norwich’s quest for a first Barclays Premiership win of the season on Saturday.

With England squad man Robert Green a major doubt because of a dead leg, the summer signing from Nottingham Forest is on standby to make his first start in a Canaries’ jersey.

The 30-year-old, who has more than 500 senior appearances to his name, came on during the second half of last weekend’s 4-0 defeat at Charlton.

With Scotland keeper Paul Gallacher currently sidelined by an ankle injury, Ward maintains he is the man to fill in again should Green not be available against fellow Premiership strugglers Southampton at Carrow Road.

“This is just what I joined Norwich for,” said Ward.

“I wanted to play regular football and put as much pressure as I could on Robert and when push comes to shove, I want to grasp the opportunity with both hands, if you pardon the pun. Hopefully, I will get that opportunity.”

He added in the Eastern Daily Press: “It would be a big game for me – just to get on and play in the Premiership on Saturday was a big thrill for me.

“I have got 400 league games under my belt and I know what it’s all about.

“If I play, I intend to got out there and do my job and hopefully it will be good enough.”